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Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) Annual Performance Report 2013-2014 Theodore Reddock TTBS | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR (AG) 1 Contents Executive Summary ............................................................................................................................................... 5 Role and Function of TTBS .................................................................................................................................... 8 Vision, Mission, Positioning Statement and Strategic Objectives ...................................................................... 11 Organizational Structure-See APPENDIX 1.............................................................................................. 11 Corporate structure-departments, Divisions, Units ........................................................................................... 13 Governance Structure ............................................................................................................................. 13 Management Structure ........................................................................................................................... 14 Services / Products provided and ‘Special Products’ embarked upon ............................................................... 16 Products and Services provided .............................................................................................................. 16 STANDARDS DEVELOPMENT & INFORMATION ...................................................................................... 16 CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT .................................................................................................................... 16 Implementation – Inspection services .................................................................................................... 17 Laboratory Testing Services .................................................................................................................... 17 Certification Services .............................................................................................................................. 17 Laboratory Accreditation Service ............................................................................................................ 19 Metrological services .............................................................................................................................. 19 CENTRALIZED SERVICES .......................................................................................................................... 20 Finance .................................................................................................................................................... 20 Human Resources Management and Labour Relations (HR) .................................................................. 20 Legal ........................................................................................................................................................ 20 Corporate Services .................................................................................................................................. 20 Information Technology (IT) ................................................................................................................... 20 Quality Control ........................................................................................................................................ 20 Marketing ................................................................................................................................................ 20 Health and Safety .................................................................................................................................... 20 Delegated Levels of Authority ................................................................................................................. 21 Legislative and Regulatory Framework ................................................................................................... 23 Reporting Functions – Departmental Reports: Reports to Ministries, President/ Parliament ............... 24 Certification............................................................................................................................................. 24 Trinidad and Tobago Laboratory Accreditation Service ......................................................................... 24 Metrology................................................................................................................................................ 25 Quality ..................................................................................................................................................... 25 HR ............................................................................................................................................................ 25 2 Policies and Development Initiatives .................................................................................................................. 26 Short Medium and Long term Plans ....................................................................................................... 26 Performance Objectives and Accomplishments ..................................................................................... 27 Strategic Business Units .......................................................................................................................... 27 Support Units .......................................................................................................................................... 32 Financial Operations ........................................................................................................................................... 36 Budget formulation ................................................................................................................................. 36 PSIP summary report on overall status Appendix 10 ............................................................................. 36 Expenditure versus Income..................................................................................................................... 36 See Appendix 11 for the consolidated financial statements .................................................................. 36 Debt Policy .............................................................................................................................................. 36 Investment Policy .................................................................................................................................... 36 Internal Audit Functions ......................................................................................................................... 36 Human Resource Development Plan .................................................................................................................. 37 Organisational Establishment ................................................................................................................. 37 Category of Employees (Public Officers, Daily Paid, Contract Staff etc) ................................................. 37 Career Path Systems ............................................................................................................................... 37 Performance Assessment/Management Strategies ............................................................................... 37 Promotion-Selection procedures ............................................................................................................ 37 Employee Support Services..................................................................................................................... 37 Procurement Procedures .................................................................................................................................... 39 Open Tender ........................................................................................................................................... 39 Selected Tender ...................................................................................................................................... 40 Sole Tender-and the criteria used in selecting each system .................................................................. 41 Public and Community Relations ........................................................................................................................ 42 Client and Public access to services/service delivery systems ............................................................... 42 Community and stakeholder relations/outreach ................................................................................... 43 Strategic Partnerships (Local, regional and international) ..................................................................... 44 3 Appendix 1: Organizational Structure Appendix 2: TTBS Services Package ........................................................................................................... 46 Appendix 3: National Stakeholder map ............................................................................................................ 48 Appendix 4: International and Regional Stakeholder map............................................................................... 49 Appendix 5: Corporate Strategy Map ................................................................................................................ 50 Appendix 6: Standardization Strategy Map ...................................................................................................... 51 Appendix 7: TTBS Balanced Scorecard-Standardization ................................................................................... 52 Appendix 8: Strategy Matrix .............................................................................................................................. 53 Appendix 9: Training Arrangements .................................................................................................................. 54 Appendix 10: PSIP Annual Reports .................................................................................................................... 56 Appendix 11: Consolidated Financial Statements............................................................................................. 86 4 Executive Summary The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (TTBS) is defined by its legislative mandate from the Standards Act (No.
18 of 1997) and the Metrology Act (No.18 of 2004).

TTBS is the sole national body responsible for the preparation and adoption of Standards and the application of these via Conformity Assessment procedures such as Inspection, Testing, Certification and Accreditation.

These functions, along with Metrological services, fundamentally support the development of a National Quality Infrastructure (NQI).
A National Quality Infrastructure maximizes competitiveness, innovation, technology transfer and the capability of our firms to trade, locally and internationally.

In order for Trinidad and Tobago to achieve developed nation status, it must have an internationally recognizable quality infrastructure underpinning its socio-economic advancement.

The previous five year Strategic Plan held as its main themes, Mandate Effectiveness, Operational Efficiency and Financial Self-sustainability.
It was necessarily organizational centric and internally focused in terms of building a 21st century foundation for sustainable development.
With the appointment of a new Board of Directors on December 1, 2011, the organization opportunistically undertook a process review of strategic and operational accomplishments to date and the development of a Strategic Marketing Plan (SMP), the outputs of which would now guide the Bureau in an externally focused and market oriented quest for increased relevance, visibility and commercial success and also inform this, the next three year Strategic Agenda of the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards.
This new 2013/14 to 2015/16 Strategic Plan will also remove any ambiguity within the organisation as to its future purpose and direction, and provide transparency and clarity to facilitate comprehensive stakeholder involvement.

A three year cycle for detailed planning was selected for pragmatism.

TTBS’ Vision focusses on “Advancing Quality for all in Trinidad and Tobago”, recognizing that Trinidad and Tobago has to improve its Global Competitive index (84 of 144 in 2012/13).
In addition Trinidad and Tobago needs to progress its movement towards economic diversification and away from petroleum and natural gas exports as the major contributor to Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

TTBS through its products and services offered has sought to support a focus towards National Quality and a National Quality Infrastructure (NQI).
Organization-wide, TTBS achieved an overall average performance of 61% of its Strategic Objectives relative to Plan, (See achievement page 27+ of this report), moving in a downward direction from the 2012/13 achievement of 70% due mainly to the continuance of some adverse effects of the previous years; especially the broken bonus payment promises and the difficulties in getting staff to accept the distinction between the Performance Incentive System (PIS) and the Performance Management System (PMS), especially in light of previous payments.
In addition there have been new technical, managerial and cultural change processes in the organization.

5 This first year of this strategic planning period where TTBS sought to focus on sectors of strategic importance, namely, Information and communications technology, Energy services, Health, safety and the environment, Creative Industries, Tourism, Construction products and services, Manufacturing and Food and Beverage (within the within the confines of the Standards Act).
TTBS then sought to pursue three strategic goals to service the national target market and industry sectors: 1.

To contribute to the national thrust for economic diversification through export and trade facilitation while supporting public and industrial welfare, health, safety and the environment through the development and implementation of an Internationally recognised National Quality Infrastructure.

2.
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To seek the improvement of goods and services produced or used in Trinidad and Tobago through the development and implementation of standards and conformity assessment systems.

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The ensure the relevance, effectiveness, responsiveness and sustainability of the Bureau by seeking close alignment to the market needs of the country along with the constant development of our human capital and prudent financial management Financially, TTBS received revenue of 55,723,115 which was a reduction from the revenue of the last financial year.
This was due in part to the challenges with resources and so there are major areas which require the intervention of the Ministry including:  Finalization of TTBS New Management Structure (approved by cabinet 2010)  Approval of the Metrology Regulations  Establishment of the National Accreditation Body  Support and approval of the Draft National Quality Policy  Support for the completion and implementation of the National Building Code  Increased funding for the large number and quality of TTBS services to the national community given the extensive need in the country.
TTBS is also the implementing and administrating agency for the World Trade Organization (WTO) Technical Barriers to Trade Agreement (TBT).
Within the forthcoming year, a series of high profile projects and engagements are envisaged: ● Sensitize stakeholders and improve advocacy for National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) ● NQI Course –UWI / UTT / COSTATT ● Key role of Standards and Quality assessment in National Development plans/ contracts ● Formalize Project Management Office and Trade Facilitation Unit in TTBS ● Fully operationalize all unused mandates enshrined in the Standards & Metrology Acts ● Potential markets in CARICOM ● Create standards based on Market/ Industry demand like TTTIC ● National Building Code Development ● Partnerships with other Information Management agencies ● Optimize use of Enquiry point ● Regionalism-work with peer organization & Regional clients ● Marketing penetration for product certification / Standard Mark development 6 Improve powers of TTBS under the Standards Act ● Quality Personnel certification system ● ● Promote the importance of the inspection service for consumer protection ● Working with Local manufacturers to improve goods for local use and exports ● Establishment of a National Accreditation Body ● Regionalism-Liaison with other National Standard Bodies ● Support regional Conformity assessment needs ● Relationship with other National Labs ● Commercialization of Time standard ● Proclamation of Act and Regulation via MTII and SI (International System of Units) Measurement System Development and Quantity of Goods Regulation implementation ● Construct the designed NMI ……………………………………… Theodore Reddock Executive Director (Ag) Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards 7 Role and Function of TTBS Standards and Quality Quality is a nebulous concept that refers simultaneously to the presence of desirable features that make a product or service more useful and the absence of flaws and defects that would reduce its usefulness.
In the modern world quality of important products or services is defined by standards which can then be used as measures of quality through the determination of compliance or non-compliance with the standard.

The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards in the declaration of National Standards establishes the local benchmark for the product or service to be used.

These standards are then a measure of the quality of that product or service in the national context.
In 1995 Trinidad and Tobago became a member of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), the governing body for globalised trade.

In this environment traditional duties and tariffs have been superseded by non-tariff barriers which include standards in many cases.

Under these arrangements standards and conformity assessment have become critical issues in trade both regionally and internationally.
Roles The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards is a body corporate established by the Standards Act (Act #38 of 1972).

This Act was replaced by the Standards Act 18 of 1997.

This Act gives TTBS three broad roles as: ● The National Standardisation Body ● The National Quality Certifying Body ● The National Laboratory Accreditation Body.
The National Quality Certifying Body may be further divided into: ● An Inspection Body ● A Testing Laboratory ● A Certification Body These all represent conformity assessment entities which act to determine compliance or non- compliance with the required standards.

The standards Act is augmented by the Metrology Act which empowers TTBS to Act in the three major manifestations of Metrology; Scientific, Industrial and Legal.

These together make up the 8 measurement system to support conformity assessment.
This requires three related roles for TTBS as: ● The National (measurement) Standards Laboratory Body, ● The National Calibration Service ● The Legal Metrology Inspectorate The management of issues related to the Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) of the World Trade Organisation (WTO) is another role of the TTBS imparted through the combined effects of Cabinet Note 553 of 1996 and the Trinidad and Tobago implementation Statement to the WTO in 1998.
These require TTBS to function as: ● The National TBT Inquiry Point ● The TBT Management Unit ● Representative to regional Standards Body - CROSQ ● Representative to international Standards and Conformity Assessment Bodies Functions These several roles create a large number of functions for TTBS which is reflective of the ubiquity of standards in general and the importance of conformity assessment in ensuring that the standards are effectively and efficiently applied to the benefit of the country and its people.
Most of all these functions represent the greatly increased importance of Standards and Quality in the modern environment of Global Trade governed by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) specifically under the agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade.
These functions include but are not limited to: ● Establishment, declaration, review and promotion of standards local, regional and ● international Institution of a National Quality System and the establishment, administration and operation of relevant schemes; of standardization and certification of goods Inspection of operations associated with the production of goods ● ● The examination of goods upon landing and any entries in respect to such goods (Implementation Division).
● Designation of test equipment for purposes of measuring, comparing and testing the characteristics of any goods or process ● Testing of Goods ● Certification of Goods ● Certification of Management Systems ● Accreditation of laboratories (Laboratory Accreditation Unit) ● Procurement and maintenance of National Measurement Standards ● Provision of Calibration Services ● Establishment and operation of the Legal Metrology Inspectorate ● Establishment and operation of the national TBT enquiry point ● Management of issues associated with TBTs.
Types of Activities and Services Provided 9 The TTBS is not a government department.

It is required to generate the majority of the income which it spends annually.

As such these functions are manifest as activities and services that take different forms.

They may be commercial offerings which are offered on the market, or cooperative activities with other state entities.

Some provisions are mandatory and subject to legal enforcement and require payment of fees.
The Bureau also enters into project activities with regional and international bodies.

Goods Services and Processes The Standards Act very specifically refers to the Bureau performing conformity assessment of goods.

Practically however it is almost impossible to perform this function without consideration of services.

Also, in consideration of goods and services the processes associated with the development, importation and application must be considered.
As such the reach of standards and standardisation is unlimited and areas where the TTBS is restricted or has been inactive have tended to suffer for quality considerations.

It is the intention to reach such areas through the application of National Quality considerations and through cooperation with other entities which may have responsibilities in such areas.
10 Vision, Mission, Positioning Statement and Strategic Objectives Vision: Advancing Quality for all in Trinidad and Tobago Mission: To champion the development of the national quality infrastructure for the improvement of the competitiveness and sustainable development of our country Positioning Statement: ADVANCING QUALITY Strategic Objectives 1.

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Develop the National Quality Infrastructure (NQI) Expand TTBS’ role as the key link to ensure Quality in facilitation of trade and industry development Align TTBS international and regional participation with national goals Grow and develop the number of effective partnerships Enhance National Health, Safety, Security Systems Maximize Financial Performance Advance the international recognition of conformity assessment procedures Promote the relevance and use of conformity assessment instruments Boost the effectiveness and consistency of TTBS participation Encourage more effective and wider stakeholder involvement in processes associated with standards and quality Support best practice in maintaining man made infrastructure and optimizing natural resources Build the Brand Facilitate and encourage the use of standards and quality in innovation Improve the regulatory framework Assist in the development of the Regional Quality Infrastructure (RQI) Increase the level of acceptance and advocacy of the value of standards among stakeholders, customers and general public.
Further partnerships with academia Evolve the Organizational and Human Capital infrastructure Organizational Structure-See APPENDIX 1 11 Left blank intentionally 12 Corporate structure-departments, Divisions, Units Governance Structure Consistent with the requirements of the Standards Act, the Bureau is comprised of an Executive Director and between 9 and 14 persons appointed by the Minister of Trade to function as Members of the Board of TTBS.
The composition of the Board must include a representative of the Ministry of Trade responsible for the administration of matters relating to industry and commerce and a representative from the Ministry of Health responsible for the administration of matters relating to food and drugs.

There is an appointed Chairman and Vice-Chairman.


Members of the Board other than the Executive Director hold office upon the terms and conditions as the Minister may determine and for such period as prescribed in the instrument of appointment.
For the period under review, the Board comprised the following members: Dr Puran Bridgemohan Ms Allanna Rivas Mr Valmiki Balbirsingh Mr Haydn Bassarath Ms Sareeta Artee Bridgelal Mr Dexter Hayden Daniel Ms Attala Maharaj Mr Avinash Seegobin Mr Farz Khan Mr Lennox Smith Mr Surendra Solomon Mr Teddy Stapleton Chairman Vice-Chairman (Chair of PQSL) Director (Director PQSL) Director Director (Director PQSL) Director Director Director Director Director (December 2011 - November 2013) Director (Director PQSL) (December 2011 - November 2013) Director (December 2011 - November 2013) Meetings are required to be held once per month and have been so occurring.
The members of the Board are assigned to four sub-committees which generally meet monthly in preparation for board meetings consistent with the principles of good corporate governance: ● Tenders and Finance – to, inter alia, monitor and make recommendations on financial policy matters, financial operations and performance, and management of the tendering process; comprised of not less than three (3) and not more than five (5) Directors of the Board, one of whom shall be the Convenor; the quorum for meetings of the TFC consist s of two (2) members (one of whom has to be the convenor) if the Committee comprises of three (3) or four (4) members; and three (3) members (one of whom has to be the convenor) if the Committee comprises of five (5) members ● Technical and Marketing - to, inter alia, monitor and make recommendations on technical policy and business development issues.
The TMC shall be comprised of not less than three (3) and not 13 more than five (5) Directors of the Board, one of whom shall be the Convenor; the quorum for meetings consists of two (2) members (one of whom shall be the Convenor) if the Committee comprises of three (3) or four (4) members; and three (3) members (one of whom shall be the Convenor) if the Committee comprises of five (5) members ● Human Resources - to, inter alia, monitor and make recommendations on human resource policy matters, including Industrial Relations, employee morale, conduct and performance issues; comprised of not less than three (3) and not more than five (5) Directors of the Board, one of whom shall be the Convenor; the quorum for meetings of the HRC shall consist of two (2) members (one of whom has to be the convenor) if the Committee comprises of three (3) or four (4) members; and three (3) members (one of whom has to be the convenor) if the Committee comprises of five (5) members.
● Audit - to, inter alia, monitor and make recommendations on matters regarding the internal control and integrity of the Bureau’s operations, financial and risk management matters; comprised of three (3) members of the Board, one of whom should be the Convenor and who must have a sufficient background in Finance or Accounting; a quorum is comprised of the Convenor and any other member.
It should be noted that consequent to a new government being elected in May 2010 and indication of changes in State Enterprises’ Boards, the TTBS Board and the organization spent the majority of calendar 2010 and 2011 awaiting the appointment of a new Board, with two false starts in 2011.

Pending this confirmation of appointment, the Board on directive from the Ministry, was advised of their limited decision making capacities.
On December 1, 2011 the new TTBS Board (as shown) was appointed and assiduously began to get to work under the mantra of Increased Relevance and Visibility for the Bureau.

Management Structure The Organizational structure (Appendix 1) depicts the current structural configuration of how work is divided, coordinated and controlled at the various functions and levels.

The philosophy of design of the organizational structure is predicated upon the Bureau’s products and services.
There are Six Technical Divisions/ Strategic Business Units (SBU).

Implementation – Inspection Services o Standards Development o o Laboratory Testing Services o Certification Services o Laboratory Accreditation Service o Metrological Services These core Technical Divisions are buttressed by the following Support Units (SU).
o Standards Information Services o Finance 14 o Human Resources Management and Labour Relations (HR) o Legal o Corporate Services o o Quality Control o Marketing o Health and Safety Information Technology (IT) The functional area managers of these 15 Departments report directly to the Executive Director and are assisted with Trade Facilitation advisory and support services from a sub-unit of the Executive Director’s office established for that purpose.
Additionally, due to the need to support MTII in the implementation of its national strategy for a Single Electronic Window for trade facilitation and market access, the Implementation Division had to embark on an extensive technology driven business process reengineering programme and in this respect, another sub-unit had to be formed in the Division so as to seed this endeavour – it is called the AIMS unit.
A Leadership Team (LT) consisting of the Managers of the Technical Divisions, Finance, HR and IT is in place to assist the Executive Director with strategic and integrative decision making, thus facilitating greater decentralization of authority, responsibility and accountability for faster market response as well as succession planning.
Previous to this period under review, Cabinet approved a Management structure for the introduction of new positions that are necessary for executing the strategic intent of the organization such as Deputy Executive Director, Business Development Manager, and Internal Auditor and revision of existing positions to make them more contemporary.

In 2011/12, implementation arrangements took more determined root.
15 Services / Products provided and ‘Special Products’ embarked upon Products and Services provided STANDARDS DEVELOPMENT & INFORMATION Appendix 2 highlights the components of the product and service package that TTBS offers to industry and the public at large.

A detailed description of the products and services of the SBUs and SUs are described below.

The product and services are categorized with respect to Standards Development, Conformity Assessment, Accreditation and Metrological Services.
The Standardization Division is responsible for the formulation of national standards with the ultimate objective of enhancing the quality of goods and services produced or used in Trinidad and Tobago.
The process of developing national standards involves technical and market research, drafting, and seeking consensus from a wide cross-section of national stakeholders (Appendix 3) to ensure that their relevant interests are addressed in the final document; national standards include specifications, codes of practices and test methods.

These documents also form the basis of the monitoring, testing and certification activities of the Bureau.
TTBS is a participating member of ISO (International Organization for Standardization) which means that TTBS and by extension Trinidad and Tobago has voting rights in the development of international standards.

TTBS also maintains Affiliate Country status on the International Electro-technical Commission (IEC) which develops electrical standards.

Additionally, TTBS is a member of the regional and sub-regional standards development bodies, viz.
the Pan American Standards Commission (COPANT) and the CARICOM Regional Organization for Standards and Quality (CROSQ).

TTBS is also a member of the COPANT Board of Directors.

Appendix 4 shows the relationship between TTBS and ISO along with the other International and Regional stakeholders.

The Standards Information Centre facilitates easy access to standards information, thus improving the capabilities of local manufacturers to compete internationally.
This centre has since become the major agency in the country for identifying, collecting and disseminating information on standards, technical regulations, and conformity assessment best practices.

The Centre operates on a semi-commercial basis and is also the focal point for enquiries regarding the World Trade Organization (WTO) Technical Barriers to Trade Agreement.
CONFORMITY ASSESSMENT Assuring that products, services, materials, processes, systems, and personnel measure up to standards is essential for the efficient functioning of economies, international trade and the sustainable use of the world’s resources.

These can be accomplished via conformity assessment procedures.
Conformity Assessment consists of any one of, some of, or all of the following: inspection, sample testing, process evaluation, management system certification (1st, 2nd, and 3rd party registration), personnel certification, product certification.

16 Implementation – Inspection services The Implementation Division is responsible for enforcing the compliance of locally manufactured and imported goods to notional compulsory standards and technical regulations via inspections and selected testing.
The Standards Act, Act No.

18 of 1997, mandates that the Bureau provide specific services, including the enforcement of national compulsory standards/technical regulations and the monitoring of practices, processes, and services that affect the health and safety of the consumer or adversely affect the environment.

The Division inspects goods at Ports of entry, importers’ warehouses, and retail outlets throughout Trinidad and Tobago.

Surveys of products offered for sale are also conducted.
At present, the following categories of goods are inspected against national compulsory standards to determine compliance: ● Automotive Products ● Electrical Products ● Textiles Products and Footwear ● Pre-packaged goods ● Construction goods Laboratory Testing Services The Laboratory Services Division of the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards provides testing services to the manufacturing, commercial and public sectors in the country.
It is accredited by the United Kingdom Accreditation Service (UKAS) and provides these services through four laboratories: Chemical Products; Electrical Products; Fibre Products; Material Products.

Other services provided include advice in various related areas, method development, training in analytical techniques and making recommendations with respect to equipment selection and test methods.

All tests are conducted in accordance with national, regional and international standards.
Certification Services The Certification Division of TTBS assesses and certifies management systems, products and services.

The aim of certification is to give confidence to interested parties that specified requirements have been fulfilled.

These requirements are usually stated in national, regional and international standards but can be stated in other normative texts as well.

The assessment may include audits, inspection, testing and surveillance activities.
Where the system, product or service conforms to the relevant standard TTBS issues a certificate & mark of conformity.

In the case of product certifications, the mark can be placed on the product or its packaging.

The following certification schemes are currently being offered: 1.

Management Systems (Voluntary) 1.1.

Quality Management Systems (ISO 9001) 1.2.

Environmental Management Systems (ISO 14001) 1.3.

Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSAS 18001) 2.

Products (Voluntary) 2.1.


Sodium hypochlorite solutions (Liquid chlorine bleaches (TTS 58)) 17 2.2.

Portland Cement (ASTM C 150 / C 150M) 2.3.

Blended Hydraulic Cements (ASTM C 595 / C 595M) 3.

Products (Compulsory) 3.1.

Safety Matches (TTS 477) 4.

Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certification Programme (TTTIC) (Voluntary) (Partnership with the Tourism Development Company (TDC)) 4.1.

Tourist Accommodation – Hotels and Guesthouses (TTS 22 Part 1) 4.2.
Tourist Accommodation – Bed and Breakfast and Self Catering Facilities (TTS 22 Part 2) 4.3.

Tour Operators (TTS 580) 4.4.

Tour Guides Specification (TTS 579) 4.5.

Tourist Land Transport Service Providers (TTS 296) 4.6.
Motor Vehicle Short Term Rental Operations (TTS 540) 18 Laboratory Accreditation Service The Trinidad and Tobago Laboratory Accreditation Service (TTLABS), operated by the Laboratory Accreditation Service operates as the sole national laboratory accrediting body for all laboratories in Trinidad and Tobago.

Administration of the Service utilizes good management practices drawn from the ISO/IEC 170111 – General requirements for accreditation bodies accrediting conformity assessment bodies.
The Laboratory Accreditation Service offers accreditation to laboratories in accordance with the following International standards: ● ● ISO/IEC 17025 – General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories ISO 15189 – Medical Laboratories – Particular requirements for quality and competence Metrological services Metrology is the science of measurement and the application of measurement, which fosters increased efficiency by providing an objective basis for decision making.
The Metrology Division is organized into three (3) major areas: Scientific Metrology, Calibration Services, and Legal Metrology.

SCIENTIFIC METROLOGY – Conducted through the Standards Laboratory Unit with responsibility for the maintenance of National Measurement Standards.

Research and development of measurement systems and dissemination of traceability of National Measurement Standards from the SI to all measurements of significance conducted locally.
Industrial Metrology – Conducted through the Calibration Services Unit with responsibility for the dissemination of traceability through the National Standards and other equivalent measurement standard by the conduct of calibration of measuring instruments.

Legal Metrology – Conducted through the Legal Metrology Inspectorate, with responsibility for ensuring that transactional measurement is accurate, fair and legal.
The LMI is responsible for the examination and approval of weighing and measuring devices to be used for trade, and to establish compliance with the requirements of the Metrology Act No.

18 of 2004.

Metrology in application fosters increased efficiency by providing an objective basis for decision making.

Upon Proclamation of the Metrology Act No.


18 of 2004, the TTBS will have recognition as the National Standards Laboratory and the Legal Metrology Inspectorate will have the authority to enforce the Act.

1 International Organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission 19 CENTRALIZED SERVICES The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards has a suite of centralized services that are shared by each Division/ Unit within the Bureau.
These Support Units (SU’s) are as follows: Finance This Unit is responsible for all accounting matters: Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Payroll and reporting to the Government.

It is also responsible for Purchasing, supplier evaluation and storage of stationery and materials.
Human Resources Management and Labour Relations (HR) This Unit handles all matters related to recruitment and staffing at TTBS Legal This Unit is responsible for the execution of the statutory mandate of TTBS in accordance with the Standard Act Chapter.

82:03.
82:03.

Corporate Services This unit includes a Printery and is responsible for printing, Registry, Maintenance, Housekeeping and Security Information Technology (IT) This Unit is responsible for computers, computer networks, internet access, photocopiers, telephone and fax services at TTBS.

Quality Control This Unit is responsible for the implementation, maintenance and continual improvement of a Quality Management System which meets ISO 9001 requirements.
Marketing This Unit is responsible for promoting TTBS and its activities to target markets and the public.

Health and Safety The Health Safety & Environment Unit is responsible for advising management on the planning and risk management of all Occupational Health Safety & Environment impacts in the Organization.
20 Delegated Levels of Authority [APPENDIX I -PURCHASING AUTHORITIES-TTBS Procurement rules] TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO BUREAU OF STANDARDS PURCHASING AUTHORITIES CATEGORY LIMITS Ministry of Finance Board of Management Tenders and Finance Committee Management Tenders Committee Executive Director Heads of Division Head -Implementation Division Head - Certification Division Head -Laboratory Services Division Head -Standardisation Division Head - Metrology Division Heads of Units Financial Comptroller Human resource Development Officer Legal Officer Librarian $5,000,000 + $500,001-5,000,000 $250,001-500,000.
$75,001-$250,000.

$75,000 $30,000.

$30,000 $30,000 $30,000 $30,000 $30,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 21 Manager, Lab Accreditation Service Marketing Officer Secretary Systems Analyst Quality Manager Health Safety and Environmental Officer Administrative Officer II $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $15,000 $10,000 22 Legislative and Regulatory Framework The TTBS is given the legislative and regulatory framework from the two Acts that govern the organization.

● The Standards Act No.


18 1997, Standards Regulations 2007 ● The Metrology Act No.18 of 2004 (Not yet proclaimed) ● CROSQ Act 2005 ● Cabinet Minute 553 of 1996 is the document through which the Government of Trinidad and Tobago designated the responsibility for the WTO TBT Agreement to TTBS to be the implementation body and the National Enquiry Point.
23 Reporting Functions – Departmental Reports: Reports to Ministries, President/ Parliament Standardization Reports to TTBS Executive Management: Performance and operations Reports to Ministry of Trade and Industry: PSIP 212 Project – Providing reliability to quality Infrastructure – Component IV: Capacity building for the development and implementation of standards and technical regulations Summary of performance based on the TTBS Strategic Plan and Balanced Scorecard Recommendations on voting positions on draft regional standards which are submitted for approval by COTED (Council for Trade and Economic Development) Recommendation on approval of draft CROSQ Operating Budget by COTED Reports to CROSQ: CROSQ Member State report (bi-annual report on the major activities and achievements of TTBS) CROSQ Member States Standards Development Report on Standards Development Activities (bi-annual report) Reports to ASTM International: Annual report on the Standardization activities of TTBS Reports to WTO: Annual Standards Work Programme Certification Reports to TDC: Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certification Programme (TTTIC) Reports to Ministries: MTI on PSIP 212 Project – Providing reliability to quality Infrastructure – ISO 17021 Accreditation.
Reports to President: None Parliament: None Trinidad and Tobago Laboratory Accreditation Service Reports to TTBS Executive Management: Performance and operations Reports to Ministry of Trade and Industry: MTI on PSIP 212 Project – Providing reliability to quality Infrastructure – National laboratory accreditation scheme.
Reports to Ministry of Health: sector in general Proficiency Testing performance of public sector specifically and private 24 Reports to CROSQ: Performance and development of Trinidad and Tobago laboratory accreditation scheme Inter-American Accreditation Cooperation (IAAC): Performance and development of Trinidad and Tobago laboratory accreditation scheme for international recognition International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC): Performance and development of Trinidad and Tobago laboratory accreditation scheme for international recognition Metrology Departmental Reports: Project function on PSIP Reports to Ministries: MTI on PSIP 216 Project – Implementation of the Metrology Act, Reports to President: None Parliament: None Quality Reports to Ministries: MTI on TTBS Summary of Performance Reports to Parliament: Parliamentary (Administrative reports) HR Reports to Ministries: Various organisational requested information to the Ministry of Trade and Industry Chief Personnel Officer: various updates concerning staffing, and collective agreement implementation Reports to President: None Parliament: None 25 Policies and Development Initiatives Short Medium and Long term Plans Metrology Division Short to Medium Term Proclamation of the Metrology Act Improve the efficiency of the calibration labs Maintain scope of accreditation Long Term Implement the provisions of the Metrology Act Certification Division Short Term Promote TTBS relevance and Visibility through the establishment of Mandatory Certification Programmes.
Continued implementation of Product Certification (both voluntary and mandatory) and TTBS Standards Mark development and promotion Medium Term: Accreditation of TTBS Certification Division Long Term: Design and Implement a Quality Practitioner Register Human Resource Unit Short Term Promote TTBS relevance and Visibility through the development of the human resource asset of the TTBS Medium Term: To address the long standing industrial relations matters currently before the Ministry of Labour and the Industrial Court Long Term: Design and Implement policies to address employment status and promotional opportunities within the TTBS 26 Performance Objectives and Accomplishments This section will highlight TTBS achievements relative to the planned targets of the PMS.
Performance will be discussed by departments.

For each department, the following will be described: Overall Performance, Significant Achievements, and Way Forward FY 14/15 (which represents the strategic intent for the next year FY14/15 inclusive of overcoming the current year’s challenges and weaknesses).
2013/14 Achievements The Performance Management System (PMS) and Performance Incentive System (PIS) which were implemented in 2006/07 as two separate and distinct elements of an overall performance framework, have, over the years become inherently perceived by staff as being linked .
In February 2011, TTBS was advised, that the new Ministerial Committee for monitoring remuneration and bonuses made the decision to defer the performance incentive bonus payment for FY 2009/10 pending the review of the GORTT bonus policy by the Ministry of Finance.

The policy has still not been revisited, resulting in outstanding payments for 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13.
This resulted in an immediate and severe compromising of both Systems; and along with heightened Union activity, cultural, structural and organizational legacy issues, there has been a decline in overall PMS performance from 87% (2009/10) to 76% (2010/11) to 74% (2011/12) to 70% (2012/13).
Relative to last year, overall average performance for FY 13/14 unfortunately further declined again to 61% from 70%, due mainly to the continuance of some adverse effects of the previous years; especially the broken bonus payment promises and the difficulties in getting staff to accept the distinction between the PIS and the PMS, especially in light of previous payments.

In addition there have been new technical, managerial and cultural change processes in the organization.
A preliminary diagnosis is summarized in Appendix 4.

It is notable that for FY 13/14 one major TTBS Strategic Objective was Mandatory Certification, the first product of focus being Roofing Sheets.

This reflects a TTBS effort that is representative of ONE Bureau… many services, working together.

In addition, great emphasis was placed on the improvement of the visibility of the orgasnisation locally, regionally and internationally ensuring that TTBS remains relevant to our various stakeholders.
Strategic Business Units Standardization Division The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 72%.

Significant Achievements ● ● The Division’s work programme for the FY 2013/14 resulted in the completion of 10 new/revised national standards in the following sectors: roofing sheets, electrical, tourism, quality, garments, garbage bags, diving and clay blocks.
Increased emphasis on standards promotion and awareness building through various means including: Presentation at TTMA on Understanding standardization and at MTIIC on an Overview of TTBS and Standardization and at TTBS on the Standards Development Process , in addition to two consultations and five articles written ● Recognition programme for World Standards Day which recognized persons in industry who played a critical role in the development of standards in Trinidad and Tobago ● The Standardization Division participated in the following international activities: BSI Study Visit - London, November 27 -29, 2013 ISO workshop on Stakeholder Engagement - Colombia, December 9-11, 2013 - - - ASTM Standards Expert Programme - Philadelphia, USA, October 28 – November 20, 2013 - ISO/PC 245, Meeting on Cross-Border Trade of Second Hand Goods, March 24th and 25th, 2014 in Trinidad.
On conclusion of the meeting it was agreed that CD 20245 be declared a 27 Technical Specification (TS) with the understanding that it will progress to an International Standard in twenty four (24) month.

● Regional activities - - TTBS is the Trinidad and Tobago representative at CROSQ and attends Council Meetings and meetings of special committees of Council including the Technical Management Committee.
TTBS therefore reports to CROSQ on all regional projects undertaken and provides semi- annual reports on TTBS activities to facilitate the exchange of information at a regional level.

The Standardization Division initiated the revision of the following regional standards: o Toilet tissue - Specification o Liquid chlorine bleach – Specification o Garbage bags – Specification o Cement – Specification - Additionally, Electric cables – Specification, a new regional standard, was initiated.
- Staff also participated in the following regional activities: o BNSI/CROSQ/PTB Workshop on drafting standards and using the ISO Standards template June 30- July 4, 2014, in Barbados o Setting National Standardization Priorities July 7-12, 2014 in St Kitts o CROSQ Procedures for the Development of Regional Standards, September 30 – October 1, 2014, in Jamaica.

o National consultation on the Draft Regional Quality Infrastructure Policy was held on August 27, 2014.
The consultation was hosted to achieve the following objectives: 1.

To increase awareness of RQI/NQI and to highlight TTBS' role in the NQI/RQI 2.

To solicit comments on draft RQI policy which is being circulated to CARICOM Member States for comment, and 3.

To determine what support TTBS can provide to stakeholders for the execution of their role in the NQI/RQI.
o Attended COPANT General Assembly held in Cuba, April 2014 o Participated in the 10th EDF TIG-S meeting held in Jamaica September 29 – 30, 2014 o Represented Trinidad and Tobago at the CROSQ 25th TMC meeting held in Jamaica ● National activities October 2-3, 2014 The goal of World Standards Day is to raise awareness of the importance of standardization to the world economy and to promote its role in helping meet the needs of business, industry, government and consumers worldwide.
The international event pays tribute to thousands of volunteers around the world who participate in standardization activities.

Since its initial celebration in 1970, member countries commemorate World Standards Day by organizing special gatherings and events.

The Standardization Division spearheaded the World Standards Day celebrations on 14th October 2013 with staff of the TTBS at the PQSL auditorium in Macoya.
The World Standards Day address was delivered by the Chairman of the TTBS Board of Directors and the individual Divisions of TTBS delivered their strategic trusts for the coming year.
Way forward – FY 14/15 Improve access to information on standards via a rollout of the new standards database ● Develop plan for effective international/regional participation ● ● Develop a national standardization priorities plan ● Increase standards promotion activities in order to increase stakeholder awareness and uptake of national standards.

Implementation Division The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 67%.
28 Significant Achievements ● Revenues earned continue to meet and/or exceed set targets.

● Completion of the Customer Charter to aid our customers to better interact with TTBS.

● Integration of the TTBS document processing process into the electronic environment via the TTBizLink Platform of MTIIC.
● Facilitating the ease of doing business in T&T by reducing in processing time via the use of TTBIZLink ● Reduction in operation cost because of the move from manual document processing to electronic document processing.
● Established and maintained its statutory mandate in all areas including – Carbon Steel Bars, Cement, Garments, Footwear and Textile Products and Footwear, Safety Matches, Electric cables, Circuit Breakers, Used Electrical products ● Stakeholder consultations held to support the Cable Standard ● Participated in a Consultation on the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Rapid Alert System for Exchange of Information on Dangerous (non-food) Consumer Goods :CARREX 2014, September 5-6, 2014.
Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Market surveys of selected products including testing to be completed by all Units as part of a comprehensive Conformity Assessment Programme.

● Continue to work closely with the SEW Unit of MTIIC to facilitate TTBS’ smooth operation in the TTBizLink environment.

Improve enforcement regime so that monitoring is based on risk assessment.

● ● Develop a mechanism to monitor local manufacturers.

● Continue with the 17020 accreditation process for Inspection Bodies.
Laboratory Services Division The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 67%.
Significant Achievements ● Stakeholder engagement progressed to address client needs in two new areas-Maritime Industry and for elemental analysis ● Training programmes on HSEQ awareness for staff in various TTBS lab services completed ● Short courses were developed and executed for local and regional participants on Garment and Testing and Uncertainty Opportunities for Development ● Materials Products Laboratory had Mr. Jose Luis Prieto from PLZ de Venezuela, on a two-day training and commissioning on the newly purchased Optical Emission Spectrometer at TTBS.
This was keeping in line with the objectives set out in TTBS’s Strategic Marketing Plan.

Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Progress mechanisms to introduce Conformity Assessment programmes in the areas of commercial rubber gloves testing and fibre and material identification ● Advance the process to investigate and address Root Cause Analysis findings Certification Division The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 86%.
29 Significant Achievements ● Introduction of a mandatory certification programme as a strategy for enforcing compulsory standards.

Implemented for Safety Matches (TTS 477: 2013) ● Pilot Project for evaluating the technical feasibility of a mandatory certification programme for Steel Sheets- Zinc and Aluminium Zinc Alloy Coated- Profiled for Roofing and General Purposes (TTS 69:2012).
Implementation of a Voluntary Product Certification for Cement ● ● Re-established a Service Level Agreement with TDC for Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certifications (TTTIC) on the island of Trinidad.

● Training in Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) started in July for 8 Officers (6 Officers from Certification, 1 Officer from Metrology and 1 officer from Standardization.
● Accreditation to ISO 17021 – 50% completed o Various policies, procedures and work instructions developed o Legally binding agreement with customers was revised to address ISO 17021 needs o Publicly accessible information revised to address ISO 17021 needs and made available on the TTBS website.

● Lead the national execution of the CALIDENA Project for the Poultry Industry.

Outputs included a Value Chain Analysis of the Poultry Industry and Proposals for Industry Improvement.
Note 1: CALIDENA is a quality and value chain analysis oriented towards identifying and promoting actions to foster quality for a value chain in order to increase competiveness by complying with quality criteria required by markets, destinations and end clients, as well as with technical regulations and private standards Note 2: This was a sub-project of the PTB project for Development of a Demand- Oriented and Regionally Harmonized Quality Infrastructure (QI) in the Caribbean.
The project was co-ordinated regionally by CROSQ with TTBS as the National Implementation Agency.

Note 3: The value chain (i.e.

the Poultry Industry) was selected based on an exercise which evaluated various industrial sectors against the following factors: real opportunity for export; diverse quality services required; financial support available; participation of SMEs within the chain; new challenges identified in the value chain; relevance for import substitution and relevance at the regional level.
It was also noted that GORTT identified Food Sustainability and by extension the development of the Agricultural sector as one of the six (6) Strategic Business Clusters with a view toward value chain strengthening.

Note 4: 2 Officers of TTBS, a member of the TTMA and a consultant were trained in the Calidena Methodology in November 2013.

It should be noted that this was sponsored by the PTB.
Note 5: A workshop was held in April 2014, key members included the Caribbean Poultry Association, the Trinidad and Tobago Manufacturer’s Association; the Trinidad and Tobago Poultry Association, the Standing Committee – Poultry Industry, Hatch egg Providers, Poultry Farmers, Poultry Processors, Distributors, Public Authorities and Conformity Assessment Bodies.

The outcome of the workshop was the Value Chain Analysis of the Poultry Industry and Proposals for Industry Improvement including Quick Wins.
Note 6: At the workshop it was indicated that an Industry Champion needed to be selected to help in the development and roll out of a detailed implementation plan based on the outputs of the workshop.

The Standing Committee for the Poultry Industry was nominated.

Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Mandatory certification programme for Steel Sheets (TTS 69:2012) – Evaluate the results of the Pilot Project including technical feasibility and adjust the plan where required.
● TTTIC programme in Tobago – Continue negotiations with the Tobago House of Assembly (THA) for re- establishment of the.

● HACCP inspections – Investigate the possibility of performing inspections on behalf of various organizations such as National Schools Dietary Services Limited, United States Food and Drug Administration etc.

ISO 17021 Accreditation – Engage a consultant.


● 30 ● CALIDENA Project – Confirm an Industry champion and work with them to develop and execute an implementation plan based on the outputs of the workshop.

Laboratory Accreditation Service The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 69%.

Significant Achievements ● Conducted one (1) pre-assessment visit for a medical laboratory, completed six (6) assessments for testing laboratories.
Kaizen Environmental Trinidad Ltd and Caribbean Premier Laboratory Ltd had initial assessments where the laboratories each were awarded accreditation.

● Conducted 13 meetings with laboratories where information on accreditation was disseminated (7 testing, 4 medical testing and 2 calibration).
This included: ● a Laboratory Update meeting in April 2014 with 27 participant laboratories; and ● an Assessor Meeting and New Year’s Luncheon in January 2014 for TTLABS’ current and potential Assessors and Laboratory Accreditation Committee members.

● Facilitated the participation of 12 private and 12 public medical laboratories in the One World Accuracy Proficiency Testing Programme 2014 round of testing.
● Conducted 6 training sessions on ISO/IEC 17025 (including one at the regional level), 2 sessions on Internal Auditing for Laboratories and 1 session on One World Accuracy Proficiency Testing for medical laboratories in the public healthcare system.

● 8 meetings and interviews with stakeholders from both public and private sectors were conducted where the stakeholder’s needs were identified.
● Strengthened stakeholder relationships with various stakeholders including MOH, the Point Lisas Energy Association (PLEA) and Ministry of Justice through meetings, presentations and training.

● Conducted a Pre-Assessor training programme for potential 22 potential assessors.

This took the form of three 5-day modules over the period of August – September 2014.
● Continued to strengthen affiliation with the Inter American Accreditation Cooperation (IAAC) through representation made at the mid-year meeting in Mexico City, Mexico in March 2014 and the Annual General meeting in Guatemala City, Guatemala in August 2014.
● TTLABS is also actively assisting with the development and implementation of a project to establish a regional rum proficiency testing scheme for the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers’ Association (WIRSPA) ● TTLABS will be celebrating World Accreditation Day in the month of June, 2014 Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Continue to educate laboratories and other stakeholders on the benefits of accreditation through invitations to meetings, seminars and training activities.
● Design new promotional items to improve the quality of information marketed to laboratories and other stakeholders.

● Continue the training of individuals for TTLABS’ assessor pool as well as qualified individuals for Laboratory Accreditation Committee.

● Training of staff members to improve on competencies in areas related to their professional duties.

● Continue to work towards the achievement of International Recognition through conformity to the standard ISO/IEC 17011.
A Cabinet Note has already been submitted and is awaiting approval Metrology Division The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 73%.

31 Significant Achievements ● Programme completed to build capacity to calibrate Road Tank Wagons.

Initial ground work was done for the development of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Calibrations ● The chemical metrology capability in Trinidad and Tobago was successfully assessed.
● The Division continues to provide Basic Metrology Training for the Industry.

● Training has also been provided to companies that required training in the areas of pressure and dimension calibrations Way forward – FY 14/15 ● The Metrology Act is still to be proclaimed.

It is hoped that this would be accomplished in the coming year.

● One of the demand surveys was completed for Dimensions and the one still has to be done for Temperature.
The Communication Plan is a work in process scheduled to be completed next year.

● Training and development programme for junior staff is a work in process and will be completed next year.

Support Units Administration Division The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was Significant Achievements Upgrade to TTBS Building continued ● Installation of Porcelain Floor Tiles on the corridor alongside the Laboratories between the Chemical and Fibre Products.
● Expansion of the Battery Testing Room.

● Installation of Condenser Unit for the Laboratory Services Division.

Upgrade to TTBS Offices Spaces ● ● Installation of Modular furniture for Projects/Trade Units Offices.

Installation of Modular furniture for Quality Unit.
Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Upgrade of the TTBS physical infrastructure-laboratory Division Standards Information Centre The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 61% Significant Achievements ● The TTBS website is continually updated with newly revised content to reflect the TTBS related current events 32 Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Rationalized and expansion of the subject areas in the SIC collection Finance Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 73%.
Significant Achievements ● Invoices were consistently generated within the stipulated time ● The internal processes for Accounts payable and receivable were well managed and consistently met stipulated targets Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Invoices were consistently generated within the stipulated time Marketing Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 48% Significant Achievements ● Sales and Marketing activities performed to support Strategic Business Units ● Execution of TTBS signature 40th Anniversary programme Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Review, Revision and Execution of Communication plans for selected Divisions Quality Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 71% Significant Achievements ● All activities to address recertification addressed ● Comprehensive review of policies and procedures in prioritised TTBS units ● Prioritised areas for linkages of TTBS Management Systems developed Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Training on aspects of Internal auditing as per Internal Auditor training matrix Human Resource Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 47% 33 Significant Achievements ● Key review instruments and assessment forms were reviewed and use initiated ● Training matrix developed for HR staff Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Monitoring of the TTBS training and Development process framework Information Technology Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 63% Significant Achievements ● Key review instruments and assessment forms were reviewed and use initiated ● Training matrix developed for HR staff Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Testing the Calibration System Information System Health, Safety and the Environment Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 53% Significant Achievements ● Key review instruments and assessment forms were reviewed and use initiated ● Training matrix developed for HR staff Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Annual Risk Assessment Performance Analysis
 report and TTBS HSE performance report completed Legal Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 34% Significant Achievements ● Submitted Agreements and Policies were reviewed to support Strategic Business and Support units ● Training in areas outlined in Personal Development plan has been initiated Way forward – FY 14/15 ● Review of requisite MOU’s, contracts and agreements 34 Projects Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 30% Significant Achievements ● The spending efficiency was improved in targeted SBU’s ● Signature project written to support external stakeholder-CFDD Way forward – FY 14/15 ● The spending efficiency was improved in targeted Strategic Business Units Trade Unit The overall actual audited result relative to the plan for 13/14 was 68% Significant Achievements ● Participation in national, regional and international activities and for a to ensure Trinidad and Tobago Trade related matters are identified, understood and addressed Way forward – FY 14/15 35 Financial Operations Budget formulation PSIP summary report on overall status Appendix 10 Expenditure versus Income See Appendix 11 for the consolidated financial statements Debt Policy This policy does not exist Investment Policy This policy does not exist Internal Audit Functions There are no internal financial audit functions 36 Human Resource Development Plan Organisational Establishment See appendix 1 Category of Employees (Public Officers, Daily Paid, Contract Staff etc) The TTBS’ staff complement consists of Permanent, Temporary and Contracted employees.
Members of staff are monthly paid and are presented by the Public Services Association of Trinidad and Tobago (PSA).

Career Path Systems Within the TTBS staff members fall within two areas Technical Vocations or Support Services.

Career paths within the TTBS refers to the growth of the employee in the organization.

The employee may move vertically most of the time but also move laterally or cross functionally to move to a different type of job role all together.
For example within the organisation the position of Standards Officer follows the path of Standards Officer I/II/III.

Areas for career growth existing but are not limited to: ● Standards Officers ● Inspectors ● Technicians ● Accounts ● Human Resources Performance Assessment/Management Strategies The assessment of staff members’ performance is managed according to the Collective Agreement in force with specific reference to Article 16 – Annual Reports and other Reports.
Additionally, the TTBS operates from the various objectives of its current Strategic Plan which gives the organization its priorities, focus, and intended outcomes.

From the Strategic Plan, Divisions/Units would then develop their individual Balance Scorecards which is monitored quarterly.

Form the scorecard, targets and KPI are provided to staff members and they are assessed based on discussions held in the year previous.
Promotion-Selection procedures Promotions and Appointments are executed according to the TTBS Collective Agreement in force, specifically Article 7 – Promotion and Appointments and Article 9 – Promotion Policy.

Employee Support Services The TTBS engage in a renewable yearly contract with Petrotrin EAP Services Limited for the provision of employee assistance programme services.
Petrotrin EAP Services Limited (PEAPSL) is in the business of providing Behavioural Risk Management and Employee Assistance Programmes to organisations such as TTBS.
37 Services available but not limited to are: • • • • • Programme development consultancy Assessment Counselling and Referrals Meditation Stress intervention Peer Support training and Consultation PEAPSL as an entity is able to address emotional and psychological issues, alcohol and substance abuse, work/life balance, conflict and career guidance to name a few.
38 Procurement Procedures Open Tender Open Tendering means the process of inviting tenders through external advertisements or other forms of public notice.

Selective and Open Tendering are the applicable tender processes available for use by Committees, the Executive Director and Heads.

Where the proposed expenditure is greater than ten thousand dollars ($10,000.00), the Tender Box process shall be utilised.
Local Open Tenders The Tenders and Finance Committee may invite members of the public to tender offers for the provision of goods and services.

The invitation to tender shall be made by public notice, contained at least once in each of the daily newspapers during the same week.

The Executive Director may request the use of additional means of communication where necessary.
International Open Tenders All invitations to tender for international suppliers, in instances where such are used by the Heads, shall require the prior written approval of the Executive Director.

In exercising this option shall be applied.


39 Selected Tender Selective Tendering means the process of issuing invitations to tender, only and directly to any of the Bureau’s registered suppliers or other suppliers, where such is expressly stated in these Rules Selective Tendering via Registered Suppliers For expenditures of ten thousand dollars or less the simplified Request for Purchase shall be prepared and forwarded to the Financial Comptroller.
At least three quotations, obtained from suppliers listed in the Register of Registered Suppliers shall accompany the form.
The Committees, the Executive Director and Heads, shall undertake the following procedure for expenditures of more than $10,000.00: a) request the names of Registered Suppliers who have been registered to provide works or services for the area of work under consideration; b) invite, by verified written request, Registered Suppliers to provide quotations for the prospective works c) examine all quotations received through the tender box upon the specified deadline date for submission of quotations d) select the most appropriate quotation based on the evaluation methodology .
The process of open tendering shall be used where there are no registered supplier’s capable of performing the required services or providing the desired goods.

40 Sole Tender-and the criteria used in selecting each system “Single Source Supplier” means a supplier who is preferred either because he is the sole agent for a particular brand, or is the sole supplier of a particular good/service that meets required specifications.
Single Source Supplier A Single Source supplier may be utilised when there is only one available supplier or when compatibility of requirements or other technical criteria rules out other suppliers.

The request for the use of a Single Source supplier shall be made by the proposer to the Financial Comptroller before any Request for Quotation is sent out and must be accompanied by written justification for selection of the particular supplier.
41 Public and Community Relations Client and Public access to services/service delivery systems Certification Division Information available on TTBS Website Metrology Division Information available on website Calibration Services Brochure Customer demand survey on calibration services 42 Community and stakeholder relations/outreach Standardization [this is for the 14/15] An awards ceremony was held at the Hyatt on 14th October 2014 to honour the voluntary contribution from national stakeholders who participated on the Technical Committees established by the TTBS to develop voluntary and compulsory standards.
A consultation on the Electrical Wiring Code was held on 11th March 2015 on Tobago to increase awareness of the requirements of the Code.

Radio promotions were conducted on 106.5 FM Aakash Vani in July 2015 to promote standards for garment construction, accessible buildings and CNG Vehicular fuel systems.

The national standard for accessible buildings (TTS/ICC/ANSI A117.1:2014, Accessible and Usable Buildings and Facilities) was launched at the Hyatt Regency Hotel on 24th July 2015.
Stakeholders from both public and private sectors were invited to increase awareness of the standard.

Certification Division ● Advertorial published in October 2014 on TTBS Management Systems certifications, the Trinidad and Tobago Standard Mark and Certification Division Clients.

● Information about certified clients and the status of their certification placed on the TTBS website.
● Stakeholder Consultation on Planned Programme for a Mandatory Certification Programme for Steel Sheets- Zinc and Aluminium Zinc Alloy Coated- Profiled for Roofing and General Purposes (TTS 69:2012) & Selection of Pilot Project Members – May 1st 2013 ● National Stakeholder Consultation on the Implementation of a Mandatory Certification Programme for Steel Sheets- Zinc and Aluminium Zinc Alloy Coated- Profiled for Roofing and General Purposes (TTS 69:2012) – 23rd Sept 2014 Human Resource Unit ● Participation in various Career Fairs and student education programmes, which highlighted the employment opportunities within the TTBS.
● Volunteered and assisted final year students of Arthur Lok Jack and the University of the West Indies with the completion of their various dissertations concerning Human Resource Management.
In other instances Internships were provided for student for UTT and UWI with the Laboratories of the TTBS 43 Strategic Partnerships (Local, regional and international) Standardization [this is for 14/15] ● TTBS partnered with CODO (Consortium of Disability Organizations) and the Ministry of Social Development to launch the national standard for accessible buildings in July 2015.
● TTBS accepted the position as Chair of the Technical Management Committee of the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) in October 2014 which strengthened TTBS’ commitment to CROSQ.

● The Standardization Division participated on the COPANT Board of Directors which enabled TTBS to contribute towards the strategic direction of that regional organization and improve working relationships with other National Standards Bodies in the Latin American region.
Certification Division ● Partnership with the Tourism Development Company for the implementation of the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Industry Certification (TTTIC) programme on the island of Trinidad.
Human Resource Unit ● Member of the International Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) ● Member of the Employer Consultative Association ( ECA) ● Human Resource Management Association of Trinidad and Tobago ( HRMATT) 44 45 Appendix 1: Organizational Structure 46 Appendix 2: TTBS Services Package 47 TTBS Product and Service PackageInspection Services Laboratory ServicesStandardsInformationCentreCertification ServicesStandards DevelopmentServicesLaboratory Accreditation Services MetrologyServices§Scientific Metrology§Industrial Metrology Services§Legal Metrology Services (work in progress)Development of voluntary and compulsory standards and technical regulations & promoting the use thereof §Sale of Standards§Membership Programmes§Reference Library§WTO/TBT Enquiry Point§Export Alert Facility§Garment & Textiles Inspections§Automotive Products Inspections§Electrical Products Inspections§Pre-packaged & Construction Goods Inspections§Footwear Inspections§Chemical Testing§Electrical Testing§Materials Testing§Fibre Testing §Management System Certification§Product Certification§Service and Process Certification (TTTIC)§Medical Laboratories§Trade-Related Laboratories Appendix 3: National Stakeholder map APPeNDIX 4 International & Regional Stakeholder map 48 Appendix 4: International and Regional Stakeholder map 49 Appendix 5: Corporate Strategy Map 50 Appendix 6: Standardization Strategy Map 51 Appendix 7: TTBS Balanced Scorecard- Standardization 52 Appendix 8: Strategy Matrix 53 Appendix 9: Training Arrangements The development of human capital through training and various types of interventions was critical this year given the organization’s need for increased relevance and visibility.
Some of the training interventions undertaken are outlined below.
Technical training to support Building the Business 2013-2014 Standardization and Quality Assurance 8th International Quality Symposium Technical Implementation Group – Standardization SIM Metrology School ASTM Standards Expert Program 2013 Advanced Website Development Microsoft Exchange Server 2010 CSA Group Study Tour CROSQ-PTB Value Chain Workshop ISO Regional Conformity Assessment Workshop on Inspection Practices based on ISO/IEC 17020:2012 ASHRAE Guideline O-2013 Seminar Kaplan-Norton Balanced Scorecard Certification Boot Camp (Palladium Group) 2014 NEC Code Seminar Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012 National CALIDENA Workshop - Poultry Value Chain of T & T COPANT General Assembly/ Conformity Assessment Workshop SO-IEC 17025 Internal Auditing of Laboratories 36th COPOLCO Plenary, Workshop and related events, SIM Chemical Metrology Group Meeting in conjunction with a Metrology Workshop Metrology in Length and Thermometry and Humidity Security Convergence: Principle of Info & Digital Forensics Environmental Management System Internal Auditor Advanced Computer Forensic Investigation & Labs.
Hands on Training 2014 UL Brand Protection Conference 2nd International Quality Symposium and Workshop on Promoting Dialogue between Regional Infrastructure Networks and the Agri-Export Sector in the Caribbean ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence BOK AATCC E-Learning Textile Program Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012 Conference on Precision Electromagnetic Measurement 2014 Water Sampling Techniques GAS / LNG Contacts Structures, Pricing & Negotiation 2014 International Law Enforcement IP Crime Conference ISO CASCO 30th Plenary Meeting and Workshop CROSQ Standards Procedure Training Training to support Building the Organization 2013-2014 Workshop for Forensics of Academic Credential and CV Fraud 54 PMO Symposium 2013 Mistakes Supervisors Make Seminar Supervisory Management Workshop ICT Governance for Executives Electronic Records Management (ERM) Practitioner Training Course Freight Transport and Logistics Distribution Corporate Secretary Workshop II Green Energy Day Workshop Developing the Social Media Strategy Workshop AATT Security Awareness Programme - Airport Authority Landmark Court Judgment Seminar Certificate in Digital Marketing Transitioning to Supervisor Training Programme Certificate in Human Resource Management Effective Business Writing for Professionals Leadership and Coaching Skills for Business Professionals Seminar Effective Business Communication - Writing and Speaking 2014 Annual Conference SHRM Certificate in Industrial Relations Management Employment Law: Managing Risk with Employees Project Risk Management Award for Customer Service Professionals Public Relations Basic Toolkit 55 Appendix 10: PSIP Annual Reports CROSQ HSE HVAC IAAC ISO PQSL RQI SCC TTBS WTO Caribbean Regional Organization For Standards And Quality Health, Safety And The Environment Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning Inter American Accreditation Cooperation International Organization For Standardization Premier Quality Services Limited Regional Quality Infrastructure Standards Council of Canada Trinidad And Tobago Bureau Of Standards World Trade Organization 56 COMMENTS/ PROBLEMS REMARKS PROJECT DETAILS UP GR AD E OF TT BS BU IL DI NG Description: This project seeks to provide facilities of an acceptable standard for existing staff, new personnel and new resulting equipment from the Bureau's expanding mandate Time Frame: Oct 2003-Sept 20144 RELATED ACTIVITIES (2013-2014) HSE 1 Infrastructural works 2.
Internal Facilities Expansion 1.

Testing the Safety and Performance of Electrical Products PR OC UR EM EN T OF TE STI NG EQ UIP ME NT AN D MA TE RI AL S Description: This project seeks to trade and facilitate increase competitiveness of manufacturers by the testing provision of and verification services supported by qualified and technical competent personnel and appropriate calibrated equipment.
The project also seeks to expand the testing regime required for the activities regulatory the by mandated Standards Act No.

18 of 1997, to improve the quality of goods on the market and to ensure the health and safety of the national population Time Frame: Oct 2003-Sept 2015 for documentation the The approval of the additional works associated with the procurement of the air conditioning system for the laboratory is still being reviewed for final approval.
the Projects offices with TTBS completed the construction of and Trade the Functions installation of new modular furniture .

Expansion of sample preparation room to accommodate new Optical Emission Spectrometer (OES).

The the gas installation of distribution lines and panels for the commissioning of the Gas Chromatograph were completed.

The Electrical Laboratory was able procure Electrical to Test Protective System and Hot Stick Test system.
Appliance test kit received on May 31, 2013 had incorrect UK plugs and was to manufacturer for exchange to US as requirement order.

received on item Replaced October 17.

Equipment checked and functioning as required.

the purchase of a Life Testing Rack for performing the life testing of Tungsten Filament Lamps as well as Compact Fluorescent Lamps.

Equipment returned per Testing 2.
Materials of Materials Products The Laboratory was able procure purchase of the Salt Spray cabinet of the Upgrading physical infrastructure will improve morale and productivity and set in place a facility which complies with accommodation the requirements of OSHA Explanation of variances from the planned programme: provision The Division has been able to improve its level of assistance to internal and external through stakeholders of the and testing verification services supported by qualified competent and The personnel.
Division has been able its to maintain accreditation for its tests and has served a wide range of clients from 2002. of Explanation variances from the planned programme: Access required to foreign exchange to the payments make once the approval for the procurement of the equipment was obtained has delayed the the receipt of equipment.

57 3.

Testing of Fibre and Products Footwear Laboratory 4.

Upgrade-Chemical Products Laboratory 5.Laboratory Management Systems for Corrosion testing.
It simulates advanced weathering thus giving an indication as to the life of an item which can be adversely impacted by the weather.

Crockmeter.

TTBS was able to procure the The Vertical crockmeter will be used to perform Colorfastness to Crocking, one of the tests, on printed fabrics.

Crocking is the tendency for a fabric dye to rub off.

This can occur wet or dry.


lab’s accredited for Finance the Procurement package Micro FTIR was submitted to Tenders Sub and Committee of the Board and approved at September 29th, 2014.

To be submitted to the Board of Directors next meeting, scheduled for October 27, 2014 at Two Laboratory technicians were chosen to participate in one of the twelve two-month courses in the Fundamentals of Fibres e-learning course offered by the American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC).
equipment The Gas Chromatograph was received but not commissioned as there was an accessory which was not received.

the for The [including Microbiology Lab Autoclave, (3), Refrigerator (single), Bio-safety cabinet, Laminar flow, Glassware] was received.

Incubators The Management Representative- Laboratory Quality System started the American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality course.

The course will for every Saturday until run March 7, 2015.
The Certified Manager of Quality course will enable participants to develop and operate quality assurance systems, organisational implement assessments, maintain customer satisfaction and focus.

It and 58 Description: seeks This project strengthen and harmonize the national Measurement, Standards, Testing and Quality (MSTQ) infrastructure within regional the towards framework international recognition.
Time Frame: Oct 2003-Sept 2017 PR OV IDI NG RE LI AB ILI TY TO QU AL IT Y INF RA ST RU CT UR E projects enables participants to also manage supporting strategic objectives and motivate human resources in the support of organisational goals.

2: Component of Development regional calibration, testing and verification services.

.
.

Develop PT Provider Capabilities for in Trinidad and Tobago selected sectors TTBS facilitated a stakeholder awareness programme hosted at Angostura Holdings Limited featuring members of the West Indies Rum and Spirits Producers' Association Inc. WIRSPA as well as the Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division of the Ministry of Health and ExporTT.

This session was intended to sensitize stakeholders in the industry about the need for testing and gain proficiency support for the programme.
from Members of the TTBS project development team participated in between online meetings representatives PTB, CROSQ and INMETRO to discuss the way forward for the RUM PT.

TTBS was required to source and ship 5Litres of dark and light rum samples to INMETRO in Brazil for analysis.

These were tested to ensure the method was working and that reliable results could be attained.

that One officer attended a Rum PT Steering Committee meeting in Barbados on 10th June 2014.
CROSQ, WIRSPA, Angostura Ltd and TTBS were all represented.

The shipping of the rum sample for analysis and the actual sample for the PT programme were discussed.

The Trinidad and Tobago Embassy to Brazil was contacted and has identified two shipping companies that handle spirits.

Planning is to start for a training programme for ISO/IEC 17025, ISO/IEC 17043, ISO Guides 34 and 35.
INMETRO has been in contact with Angostura’s Lab regarding 59 the tests and test methods based on rum testing, and so they are still working rum on characterization.

the still finalizing review Participation in OAS- FEMCIDI Quality Infrastructure Project - the is TTBS programme by for CROSQ.

The Workshop will now be held in November 2014 Implementation of CA strategy - e.g.
roofing sheets etc TTBS participated in an ASTM Virtual meeting on Roofing Sheets to ascertain the feasibility of labelling and best practices used in the U.S. from Roofing TTBS hosted its stakeholder the mandatory consultation on certification of Roofing Sheets programme.

The feature address was delivered by the PS (Ag) in sheet MTIIC.

manufacturers gave testimonials as to the benefits which they derived the programme.
Other stakeholders were advised that the effective date for full implementation would be six months henceforth.

Further on in the month, three roofing sheet manufacturers were awarded the Product Certification Mark which enables them to place the mark on as proof of their products compliance with the requirements of the Standard.
of International Recognition TTLABS - to grant TTLABS was able accreditation new to laboratory during this period and reaccredit the other 4. one of 3 TTLABS digital hosted proficiency testing events.

At any one time at least twelve (12) private laboratories and eight (8) public laboratories participated during this test event.
Proficiency are quality testing assurance tools for laboratories to compare their performance with schemes 3: of National Body Component Development regional accreditation structure 1.

Accreditation (International Recognition TTLABS) for Explanation variances: awaiting TTBS is feedback its on business plan and draft Cabinet Note from MTI 60 other similar laboratories, to take any necessary remedial action, and A to facilitate improvement.
in participating laboratory proficiency testing schemes helps the laboratory to demonstrate its competence to a third-party.

training session on the A digital OneWorld Accuracy proficiency testing programme and the importance of proficiency testing was held on 22nd and 23rd Laboratory September 2014. technicians the Regional Health Authorities, Arima District Health Facility, Insect Vector Unit, Mt.

Hope Women’s Hospital and Trinidad Public Health Laboratory.
representing One officer attended CROSQ’s Technical Implementation Group Accreditation (TIG-A) in Belize during the 4 – 7 November 2013.

The operational plan for 2014 was worked on as well as a review of the activities done in 2013.

The Rum PT was also promoted during this time.

November Laboratory One officer attended the PAHO meeting held in Barbados from 28 – 2013.

29 Representatives from PAHO, CDC and CROSQ met to discuss Quality the Management System Stepwise Improvement Programme (LQMS-SIP).
This is a project initiative to address concerns from the World Health Organization International Health Regulations IRH (2008).

These regulations address reporting, monitoring, a tracking healthcare system that supports the country.

This is a tiered process to help laboratories improve.

It is to support the licensing of medical laboratories in Trinidad and Tobago.
enforcing and One officer accompanied the US Food and Drug Administration as an observer on audits they carried 61 on out two manufacturing companies on the 5-6 November and the 15th and 18th November 2013.

TTLABS hosted the Assessors’ Conclave on Friday 3rd January 2014.

The Assessors present were updated on the activities of TTLABS for 2013 as well as the plans for the year 2014.

TTLABS discussed the Assessor contract the Assessor Monitoring and documents.
Feedback was welcomed on how these can be improved One officer attended the IAAC mid-year Executive Committee Meeting from the 17th to 20th The meeting March 2014. addressed traceability policies as well for accreditation bodies.

policies new as TTLABS hosted a laboratory update meeting at TTBS on Wednesday 2nd April.
This meeting served to: ● update the laboratories on the activities of TTLABS ● provide information regarding the developments within accreditation industry ● allow TTLABS to receive feedback from the laboratories present.

There were thirty (30) participants representing and calibration laboratories from both the public and private sectors.
testing TTLABS met with SPORTT in order to discuss the following: the goals and general operations of SPORTT • • accreditation for SPORTT services provided by TTBS that can support SPORTT potential stakeholders for the development sports tourism.

of • • training TTLABS facilitated a programme hosted by the Grenada Bureau of Standards (GDBS) from 62 held the 3rd to 5th June 2014.

The GDBS sensitization programmes on ISO/IEC 17025, ISO 15189 and ISO/IEC 17020 for World Accreditation Day.
training The three module for the Pre- took place Assessor during this period.

Twenty-three the (23) participants attended week-long session.

the Both medical and testing fields were represented.

There was one representative from St Vincent & the Grenadines.

Eight officers received training in Hazard Analysis And Critical Control Points (HACCP) Auditing And Preparation for the American Society (ASQ) for Quality Auditor HACCP Certified examination.
This training was needed to improve the competence of the officers of the Certification to provide in order Division reliable inspection, audit and certification services in the area of food safety.
the Two Implementation Division ISO/IEC 17020:2012 project team, Mr. Gerard Maxwell and Mr. Anselm Simon attended a training program entitled Training: “Regional Inspection Practices Based on ISO/IEC The training program was held by the International Organization for Standardization in conjunction with the Bureau of Standards Jamaica.

It was held on 20-22 November 2013 Jamaica Pegasus, Kingston Jamaica.

17020:2012”.
17020:2012”.

members of at Head, Implementation The Division the draft reviewed ISO/IEC 17020 Gap Analysis Report in preparation to submit to TTBS Leadership Team (LT) for feedback.
The Small Building Code, Structures, Occupancy and Fire Safety, Code Mechanical Technical Working Groups of the Code National held Committee Building respectively Explanation of variances from the planned programme: – Non Approval budget of for Cabinet 63 Accreditation of National Certification Body Accreditation National Body of Inspection 4: Component of Implementation standards and technical regulations Standards development Appointed Committee for the National Building Code by Ministry of Housing is causing delays.
The assumption was that the budget would have in been October 2013 and that the main activities would have begun.

approved of There were no further meetings the Cabinet-Appointed National Building Code Committee as the was project suspended as of March 2014 due to issues the CANBCC with governance structures.

meetings from October to March to: ● Conduct a revision of the Small Building Guide (TTS 599:2006).
TTS 599:2006 will be transformed into a Small Building Code, ● Discuss the requirements of the International Building Code 2009 as it pertains to structural elements to support the formulation of a National Building Code.

● Discuss the requirements of the International Building Code 2009 as it pertains ot fire the safety formulation of a National Building Code.
support to ● Discuss the formulation of a Mechanical Code in support of the National Building Code National the revision of TTBS – Established Committees Technical The (Electrical Codes) Committee continued the Trinidad and Tobago Electrical Wiring Code – Part 1: Low voltage installations.

A review focused on technical editing of the draft Code has been undertaken by a small group cross-functional TTBS which is chaired by Mr John Phillip, the National Technical Committee.
the Chairman of The Head of the Standardization Division participated in the British Standards Institute (BSI) Open Doors Study Visit from 27 – 29 November, 2013 in London, England.

The main areas of focus of the visit included reviews of BSI’s operations, stakeholder engagement, IT tools, standards promotion/uptake, BSI and the Education Sector.

The Standardization Division also developed an e-flyer to promote a and Tobago new Trinidad Standard (TTS flyer was 625:2013).
This uploaded on the TTBS website.

for Garments 64 One officer attended a two day- seminar on the 2014 National Electrical Code (NEC) which was the University of hosted by Trinidad and Tobago from 1st-2nd April 2014 at their Chaguanas campus.

The knowledge gained from this seminar would be used to assist in the revision of the Electrical Wiring Code – Part 1: Low voltage installations.

to in One officer attended the ISO/TC 228 (Tourism) Plenary meeting from 19th – 23rd May 2014 in Paris.
The officer also attended workshops related to standards development activities the following areas some of which are identified relevant directly national priorities: Industrial tourism Natural protected areas Environmentally accommodations Yacht harbours A representative of the Tourism also Development Company attended the ISO TC 228 Plenary meeting associated and workshops.
friendly One officer received training in Management Environmental Internal Auditing Systems to the development of facilitate standards in the environmental sector.

One stakeholder session was held in Tobago on 20th August 2014 to discuss the requirements for tourist information offices.

The enforcement of refrigerant gases using the Prepackaged Goods standard TTS 76 Part Two of 1994 continues as the specific product standard is still in the process of being developed by the Standardization Division.
of Inspection Officers the Implementation Division attended a training session on 15th May on the use of refrigerant identifiers in of Explanation variances from the planned programme: TTBS awaiting is MTII's roll out of the AFT Strategy 65 i. ii.

iii.

iv.
iii.

iv.

of Implementation compulsory standards/ technical regulations relation to the enforcement of the Refrigerant Standard, TTS 76Part 13:2010(currently being revised), and Labelling of Refrigerant Containers Standard, currently being the Standardization Division of TTBS.

developed by The enforcement of TTS/BS5467 Electric Cables – Thermosetting Insulated Armored Cables for voltages of 600/1000volts and 1900/3300volts commenced on November 4th 2013 as scheduled.
In relation to the enforcement of refrigerant gases, a member of the Appliance and Safety Products Unit, attended a regional worship entitled “Protecting Caribbean borders from Illegal Trade in Ozone Depleting Substances”.

The training program was held by the Grenada National Ozone Unit (NOU) of the Ministry of Finance and Energy in collaboration with the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).

It was held on 27-29 November 2013 at St Georges, Grenada.
The focus of enforcement shifted slightly to the monitoring of the Electric fans standard, TTS/UL507:2009 due to issues noted customer feedback and observations of false UL electric certification marks at the port of entry during the month of December 2013. fans with from of and Safety The Appliance products the Unit Implementation Division sought to increase the awareness of the public by having stakeholder meetings /consultations, advisories, purchasing and testing of samples etc.

been completed.
been completed.

The nationwide survey of the Electric fans has A comprehensive report highlighting the conformance of fans on the market the Electric Fans standard, TTS/UL507:2009, as to 66 well as to the Requirements for Labelling-Part 13: Labelling of Electrical Appliances, TTS 76: Part 13: 2010, was completed.

TTBS held a Stakeholder Consultation to the Session in Compact requirements Fluorescent (CFL), Christmas tree lights and Electric Fans.
relation for Lamps The Inspectors of the Appliance and Safety Products (ASP) Unit attended a seminar on May 28th held by Trinidad and Tobago Electric Association (TTEA).

The seminar focused on the way forward, finding solutions in the Electrical Wiring Industry.

A presentation was made by the Head of the ASP Unit informing participants of the products that TTBS inspects as it pertains to TTEA and electrical installation as well enforcement the as procedures.
known (formally TTBS in collaboration with UL LLC as Underwriters Laboratories) hosted a on Regional workshop Understanding the UL mark –How identify counterfeit marks.

to Consequently, the stakeholders included importers /distributors of Fluorescent Lamps Compact (CFL), Christmas tree lights and Electric Fans as well as the general public.

USA.
USA.

June 24-25th the Head of the ASP Unit attended the 2014 UL Brand Protection Conference at the Westin Los Angeles Airport Hotel, This California, International Conference was jointly hosted by UL in partnership with the LA County Sheriff The conference Department.

highlighted the trends in brand protection and the ways in which companies are attempting to the occurrence of minimize counterfeiting.
were to network with opportunities There 67 various agencies international including Interpol, Europol, US Customs and Border Protection as brand well representatives like Nike, Eaton, Schneider Electric and Beats Audio.

major as from TTBizLink and Persons Crimson (company Logic contracted by MTII to develop and implement TTBizLink), engaged the Implementation Division in an exercise to map the inspection process, for the purpose of using handheld devices to incorporate electronic into this environment.
an The Head, Appliance and Safety Products Unit attended the 8th Annual Law Enforcement Intellectual Property Crime Conference hosted by Interpol, Co-Hosted by UL, in Hanoi Vietnam, from 22nd to 25th September 2014.

This conference focused on training in the area of operations anti-counterfeiting Intellectual and worldwide Property crimes.
Component Coordination national infrastructure 5: of quality Establish National Quality Policy, National Quality Council and Implementation Plan Two officers attended the Inter- Ministerial Committee at MTII on 28th where the Implementation strategy for MTIIs Trade Policy and Strategy 2013 -2017 was discussed: - It was agreed that the identified agencies/ organizations with responsibility for each Component of the Policy would meet and develop a status report on activities undertaken to - date TTBS was identified as having responsibility for Components 1,2 and 3 however they also have responsibilities under Components 4, 6 and 7 TTBS met with representatives from the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Council for Competitiveness and Innovation 68 on the concept of the NQI and another meeting is set up for the end of October.
of Science Establish and NQI Legislative Strengthen/ Institutions Structures TTBS participated in a discussion with a representative from the Ministry and Technology on the development of Quality the Infrastructure.

The officer from the MST reported on the OAS Meeting of the National Quality Infrastructure Grouping which they attended and discussed ways to incorporate NQI elements into the National Science Policy.
National TTBS continued to work with the Chemistry, Food and Drugs Division of the Ministry of Health (CFDD) and the CDB Consultant – Dr. Parsan on CFDD’s application for assistance under the CSME Standby Facility as regards for accreditation of their laboratories.

their preparation TTBS met with the Trade Implementation Unit of MTIIC to discuss and refine the initiatives proposed under the National Aid for Trade Strategy related to the Quality Infrastructure.
for TTBS Organizational Transformation - TTBS Strategic Plan 2013-2016 moved forward with it’s plans for 2014- 2015 as it awaited feedback on it’s Strategic Plan from MTI.

Five representatives of TTBS visited the Canadian Standards Association from November 11th – 13th in order to review the systems, processes and institutional models used by the CSA Group in the conduct and operations of i.

Product Certifications, ii.

Product Evaluations and the CSA Leaning Institute iii.
with the aim of improving TTBS and PQSL related operations and 69 the possibilities exploring for partnerships with CSA in this regard.

The visit was also intended to explore how CSA can help TTBS achieve internationally accepted to conformity norms assessment and related training services related Two officers participated in the Project Management Institute – PMO Symposium in San Diego, California from November 10th to 13.
Presentations included the the Balanced application of Scorecard Strategic :Linking Initiatives to Strategy Execution by Robert Kaplan as well as research done by PMI into the changing roles of the PMO and increasing need for PMOs.

The results Initiative Strategic PMO : Management Imperative was presented by the Executive Director of PMI.

the - One officer attended the Palladium Kaplan-Norton Balanced Scorecard Certification Boot Camp in March.
This four day programme from the 24th-27th March 2014 held in Orlando Florida educated the delegates on 4 modules as follows: A-Strategy B- Execution Leveraging Technology Infrastructure, C-Strategic Risk Management and D-Creating an Office of Strategy Management Infrastructure.

The programme is endorsed by and based on the Kaplan-Norton strategy execution approach.

Leadership, The Board of Directors gave their approval to submit the draft MOU with the Canadian Standards Association to MTIIC for review.
Develop National Accreditation Focal Point Regional NAFP participated in a the 20 training workshop on 70 laboratories milestones for implementation of “ISO 15189:2012 -- Medical for quality and Requirements competence” “ISO/IEC and 17025:2005 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories” on 11- 12th March 2014. of and with in April 2014 Improve Stakeholder Engagement and Awareness the nature and Raising of application Quality Infrastructure topics – TTBS in the collaboration CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality the (CROSQ) International Cooperation of the German Metrology Institute - Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) hosted a 3 day CALIDENA methodology workshop in Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards.
The goal of the CALIDENA Methodology is to strengthen Quality Infrastructure (QI) services that are needed to support a specific value chain.

The term quality infrastructure refers to services related metrology, standardization, testing, quality management and to compliance evaluation - all relevant for assuring the quality of products for both national consumers and export markets.
CALIDENA was designed to adjust the supply of quality services to the real companies, demand The particularly workshop’s objectives were to: ● Undertake SMEs.

the of to a rapid participatory diagnosis of quality requirements needs for the Poultry against the current supply quality of infrastructure services being provided in support of the Sector.
Identification of bottlenecks to opportunities and ● 71 strengthen local supply of QI services in a demand oriented way ● Elaborate and agree an action to upgrade the QI the Poultry for plan services Sector.

The sector stakeholders developed the following: 1.

Draft Action Plan – Way forward for the poultry industry 2.

Draft Quick win action plan and Participants were selected from across the Poultry sector; these included the, distributors of the small finished product, farmers.
Several Agro-processors, who are the producers of the processed chicken, were also in attendance.

Feedback from these groups was essential in identifying concerns and needs within the sector.

Support institutions to the value chain such as the Chemistry Food and Drugs Division and CROSQ in fully participated also elaborating the Action Plan.

CROSQ invited TTBS to submit a new proposal for consideration using the Calidena Methodology.
The Feasibility/ Research study for the first Calidena programme on the Poultry Sector was submitted by the consultant and is currently being reviewed by the Poultry Industry Standing Committee (PISC) and TTBS.

also TTBS and submitted a draft MOU to the PISC for review.

proposed in TTBS collaboration with representatives of the PISC met with the representatives of MTIIC including the PS(Ag.
), CFDD and CAD to discuss the way forward with regards to the Action Plan coming out of the CALIDENA workshop held in April.

72 Bank TTBS participated in the Closing Workshop of the Inter-American Development assisted Sustainable Energy Programme for Trinidad and Tobago held at the Raddisson Hotel on July 8th.

The workshop was arranged with various stakeholders to share the findings of the Report and to identify a way forward with respect to the recommendations therein.
TTBS began preparations for celebrating World Standards Day which will involve hosting a high profile national event at the Hyatt Regency, Port of Spain, on 14th October 2014.

The celebration will include recognition and awards ceremony voluntary to persons contribution participating standards development committees.
the of on recognize in Strengthen CROSQ/ISO the network and implement further international regional/ frameworks by participating in regional/ international activities - the 8th TTBS participated International Quality Symposium hosted by the Cuban Bureau of Standards from October 16th – 18th.
A presentation was made on “National Quality Infrastructure : The Missing Link to Sustainable Development and Competitiveness in Trinidad and this Tobago.” Attendance at conference was at aimed benchmarking for furthering of quality initiatives and programmes in support of the development of quality infrastructure in Trinidad and Tobago.
TTBS as the representative for Trinidad and Tobago participated the 26th Pan American in Standards Commission (COPANT) Board Of Directors Meeting held on 15th November 2013 in Costa Rica.

Trinidad and Tobago was elected to the Board 73 of Directors at the last AGM in May in St. Lucia.

Discussions included the upcoming agenda for in 2014, current the AGM initiatives, cooperation agreements and strategic priorities for 2014.
TTBS in collaboration with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) hosted a meeting on Cross Border Trade in Second Hand Goods in March.

Two officers participated in 2nd International Quality Symposium and Workshop on Promoting Dialogue Regional between Quality Infrastructure Networks and the Agri-Export Sector in the Caribbean facilitated by CROSQ in the Dominican Republic during the period 25th – 27th June, 2014.
TTBS participated in the ISO Committee Conformity on Assessment (CASCO) AGM and Workshop during September in Geneva.

The Workshop and AGM gave possible improvements to existing schemes and the Accreditation of the Certification Body within TTBS.

including guidance projects on Automated 1.

Information Management System Phase 3 CE NT RA L SE RV IC ES Description: This project seeks to facilitate the provision of technical and other supporting infrastructure TTBS’ operations.
Time Frame: Oct 2003-Sept 2015 for TTBS was able to procure a service provider recommended by MTII for the integration of TTBS Information Management System with TTBizLink the creation of an adapter.

This is almost completed (95%) and information has begun being transmitted from SEW to TTBS.

through The AIMS team has started testing of the Risk Assessment Tool using the Long Room San Fernando as the test Site.

Inspectors at this / outstation accessing the web application on the 7th of February, 2014.
Testing of the Risk Assessment Tool was completed.

started utilizing Explanation of variances from the planned programme: based The web of submission import associated inspection documents through TTBizLink and the integration of Compulsory TTBS Standards Implementation Solution TTBizLink dependent launch TTBZLink Declaration Module.
TTBS currently awaits the launch of MTI’s with are the of MTI’s on 74 of staff Unit the of Members of the Automotive Implementation Division continued to actively use the web application when carrying out inspections.

The Staff of the Implementation Division were given initial training on the Goods Declaration module of the TTBizlink held in the Division’s Implementation meeting room and facilitated by Mr. Christian Marquez, SEW Specialist, MTII.
Quotations were solicited for additional Network Switches, Stacking Modules and Fiber Patch Cables to support the final phase in outfitting the Bureau's network.

The network would be now ready to accommodate the impending PBX upgrade to the VoIP system.

Four companies responded to the Request for Proposals for the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) solution for TTBS with one being disqualified for failing to adhere to the tender procedures.
The evaluation process was completed and a preferred supplier chosen.

Approval was sought from the Tenders and Finance Sub Committee of the Board for the procurement of the new VOIP system.

The documentation was amended as requested and it was submitted the Board of to Directors for consideration.

The Website Administrator received an upgraded laptop and one 22” PC monitor to facilitate improvements to the website.

2.

Upgrade of ICT Infrastructure 3.

Upgrade of TTBS Website 4.


Upgrade of Printery the Quotations solicited, were obtained and evaluated from three major suppliers of Digital Printing Presses.

TTBizLink Declaration module.


/ Customers Clients e- submitting payments for fees and services provided by the TTBS, online is on dependent Government Legislation and would be launched six (6) month after official legislation is finalized of Explanation variances from the planned programme: The Board expressed some concerns as to the process which was (selective followed tendering) and the Board asked that the process be restarted it being done with through public tender.
a of Explanation variances from the planned programme: The Paypal account required for the online store to function has not been established to date.

The project is at a standstill until this is done.

This project was put on hold due to lack of availability of funds.

The digital printing press would have upgraded the printing 75 operations to a fully digital process thus improving the quality of efficiency and TTBS operations.
The printing press would have eliminated all the conventional printing steps is being done today to a direct from computer to plate process.

This would have delivered speed and an exceptional fewer quality with environmental and health issues).

that Explanation of variances from the planned programme: The proclamation of the Metrology Act remains outstanding.

early The proclamation was an assumption of this project.
This has had a detrimental effect on the mandatory all that were activities 76 Project 5.

Management Information System TTBS was able to procure licenses for Microsoft Project 2013.

Training was completed for 23 persons in the use of Microsoft Project 2013.

TTBS acquired one Professional license of MPMM to be used as a pilot in the further development of TTBS Project Management Methodology.
TTBS is also in the process of acquiring mind mapping software on a pilot basis IM PL EM EN TA TIO N OF ME TR OL OG Y 1.

Develop Establish Legal Procedural Framework Description: 1.
Implementation of the Metrology Act the through development and establishment of the National Metrology System the establishment of the international systems the of Units National System of Units locally and as and Policy, and MTII has TTBS received the revised draft of the Metrology Act, reviewed such to MTII for and resubmitted consideration.

to organize the review of the revised act by CPC and LRC.

TTBS and MTIIC met with CPC on the Act and The Regulations however, were not finalized.

reviewed.
reviewed.

it was MTIIC attended an LRC meeting to discuss the Proclamation of the AC T 2.

Improvement in the Competitiveness of T&T due to the effect of application of Metrology.

Improvement the quality of life due to visible improvements in the fairness of trade and the reliability of measurements in Time Frame: Oct 2003-Sept 2017 of 2.

Acquisition and Infrastructure Equipment for NMI, NML and LMI 3.

Build competency of staff of NMI, NML and LMI has allowed treat with MTIIC was Act.
There was some discussion on the possibility of partial proclamation of the act apart from the clauses having to deal with the existing Weights and Measures Inspectorate.

to provide information on how they the VSEP would arrangements for the Weights and Measures Inspectors.

The purchase of the following the equipment Metrology Division to improve the range and quality of services offered to its clients in the areas of dimensional, electrical, time and an frequency Automated Hydraulic Pressure Controller.
This instrument is to reduce the down time and improve the turnaround time to calibrate equipment.

● one (1) Standard Platinum Resistance Thermometer with NIST Traceable Calibration (2) and Certificate from Probes Thermistor for ISOTECH the the of development Temperature Calibration System.

calibrations: two ● Tape/ Ruler Calibration System ● An E1 OIML Weight Set for Mass Calibration.
● one (1) Humidity/ Temperature Datalogger with for monitoring accessories and maintenance of the laboratories environmental conditions The 9th stage (Interior Layouts) - 16 Labs (User Brief/ Draft and the new for Final Layouts) National Metrology Institute Building were finalized by WSP Caribbean Limited.

One officer participated in the for “Quality Renewable Energy Sources and Energy Efficiency in Latin America and Caribbean” in Costa to 29th Rica November, 2013.
This was an orientation seminar to strengthen Infrastructure the 27th from anticipated and which should have already commenced.

It has also affected the status preliminary of arrangements that were made.

TTBS continues to work with Ministry of Trade and Industry and the office of Chief Parliamentary Counsel towards the proclamation of the Act.
the 77 capabilities in providing services for the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources by ensuring the reliability of electrical household meter verification services Legal Metrology unit conducted Compress Natural Gas Learning Forum on the 19th and 26th November, 2013 Mr Martin Hafner trained Standard Officers and Technicians on the installation of the Susceptometer and Climate data logger system “Mikromec” on 2014-01-14 to 16.
Training also took place on the 2014-01-22 and 23 by Mr Marcus the Zickiefoose OHM electric Energy Meter Verification System which was received 2013-10-29. for operating January 13th, 14th and 15th, Mr Patrick Kowalski trained relevant staff on operating the Gauge Block Comparator System which was received 2013-10-18.
Technicians Laboratory and Assistants took part in the training and installation of the Humidity Generator which was purchased to calibrate thermohygrometers from Thunder Scientific representative Mr Rudy Garcia officer One attended SIM- Chemical Metrology Working Group (SIM-CMWG) Meeting, from the 19th & 20th May, 2014 in INDECOPI, Lima, Peru.
SIM- CMWG is a sub-technical group of SIM, where member states report recent activities and plan future activities that will aid member groups support CMCs and national CMC growth.
officers attended Two a temperature and humidity training which was hosted by Korea Institute of Standards and Science 78 (KRISS) in South Korea from the 06-06-2014 to 21-06-2014. received Tape/ Ruler Calibration System was from Octagon Precision and Metrology staff were trained in operations of this from an Octagon equipment Precision facilitator which took place 21th to 25th July, 2014. officer attended the One and Magnetism Electricity Working Group meeting at Inmetro in Brazil from the 2014- 08-25 to 29.
TTBS attended SIM Meeting, Panama from 2014-04-09th and 10th .

At this meeting SIM Quality System Task Force provides a bi- annual forum where NMIs and designated institutes (Dis) can review and approve each other's Quality Management Systems to TTBS met with Petrotrin conduct the Natural gas survey on 6th December, 2013.

TTBS was joint celebration of World Metrology Day and World Accreditation Day as themes were similar.
However this was deferred due to the unavailability of the Ministry of Energy and Energy Affairs at the time.

to host a the 4.

Development of National Standards Laboratory 5.

Conduct Baseline Studies 6.

Public Outreach 1.
Legal Framework TTBS in collaboration with exporTT and the WTO hosted a Workshop on “Rules of Origin” 2nd –during 4th October 2013 at Kapok hotel TTBS gave a presentation on on Good Regulatory Practice in relation to the TBT Agreement at ExporTT’s Export Development Forum Administrative Infrastructure 2. and Framework TTBS participated in the kick-off meeting hosted by EU Delegation for their Agriculture project which implementing Standards as its focus on 9th October 2013 has from of Explanation variances the planned programme: Administrative arrangements for the formalizing of the Trade Unit related to infrastructure, 79 Description: The project is intended to the assist organization to fulfill the requirements of the TBT Chapters of trade agreements by an developing enabling environment improved through infrastructure and increased competence and capability in four main areas: ● Addressing gaps in the legislative framework to improve compliance with the requirements BUI LDI NG CA PA BIL ITY FO R SU ST AI NI NG EX PO RT- LE D TBT of the Agreement; ● Strengthening administrative framework the National Coordinating Mechanism; the for ● Facilitating export-led sectors for growth identified development; in ● Increasing the understanding of issues related to TBTs though on communication and networking with key stakeholders trade Time Frame: Oct 2010-Sept 2017 GR OW TH IN TRI NI DA D AN D TO BA GO BY ST RE NG TH ENI NG TH E TR AD E INS TIT UTI ON AL INF RA ST RU CT UR E FO R TE CH NIC AL BA RRI ER S TO TR AD E TTBS participated in exporTTs “Understanding Trade Agreements – Venezuela” on 17th October 2013 at the Mariott persons Four TTBS participated in ExporTT’s Export Development Forum from TTBS participated in the Trinidad and Tobago El Salvador Partial Scope Agreement negotiations held in El Salvador 28th – 31st October 2013, 21st - 24th January 2014, 7th – 11th April 2014.
TBT and SPS was negotiated separately from Market Access in an effort to move forward and because there was expertise on both sides to do so.

TTBS also participated in CARICOM Technical Working Group (TWG) meeting on Market Access and Agriculture was held at MTIIC in an effort to further the Trade CARICOM Agreement.
Canada Two officers attended the “Introduction to Export Market Research” organized by exporTT 8th November 2013 in meeting participate a TTBS EUROCHAM for finalizing a Technical Assistance Workshop for Training MSE's in International Quality Standards on 7th November 2013.

This is a project to take the MSEs to the point of readiness for certification to any standard accepted by the Global Food Safety Initiative.
Training Ms Beharry conducted training of employees in Module 1 of the TBT agreement on 29th January 2014: - This was the third set of employees to be trained - the relationship of TTBS with the WTO, responsibilities related to the TBT agreement and the scope of the TBT agreement as distinct from the SPS agreement TTBS covered organizational structure and staffing are not as scheduled since approvals are needed from agencies outside of TTBS.

However activities are being undertaken.


80 TTBS provided comments for ACPs WTO proposal for TBT related aid.

five Twenty (25) participants utilized the Rosetta Stone software to learning of the Spanish.

facilitate TTBS held discussions with MTIIC on the possibility of extending the terms of reference for a national technical assistance activity to be hosted by the WTO.

The scope is to be widened to include both TBT and SPS.
TTBS drafted the scope of work for a WTO national workshop on TBT and SPS and forwarded to MTIIC.

3.

Export Competitiveness Ms Beharry gave a presentation on Trade Facilitation (TF) to the Leadership Team on 8th September 2014 Two officers from TTBS, one from TTMA and an external consultant from RES Consulting participated in a training session for CALIDENA facilitators The aim of this workshop was to train facilitators to conduct jointly and otherwise, CALIDENA the Methodology for Value Chain analysis.
in TTBS collaboration with CROSQ hosted a CALIDENA workshop to look at improving the quality infrastructure inputs to the value chain in the poultry industry.

A presentation on findings and the recommendations related to the CALIDENA project on Poultry was given at MTIIC for furthering actions and an MOU TTBS attended the WTO TBT Committee Meetings - March 2014 and June 2014 4.
Communication and Networking TTBS was asked to and presented on Regional Trade Facilitation at the Trade and Investment Convention (TIC) on the 2nd July 2014.
TTBS hosted a joint workshop on the 17th titled September 2014 81 “Standardization and Certification Workshop” - Thirty five persons were in attendance TTBS sent a request to exporTT to present on “Supporting Strategy and Regulations” its World at Standards Day celebrations to be held on 14th October 2014 Component V - 10th European Development Fund – Caribbean Regional Indicative Programme: Economic Partnership Agreement – Technical Barriers Trade To Component of on TTBS as part of CROSQ administered a survey to gain information regional conformity assessment bodies.
This information will also help in the establishment of a Caribbean Network Conformity Assessment Bodies (CANCAB).

The (CANCAB) is intended to be a regional network of Conformity Assessment Bodies (CABs) (e.g.

certification bodies, inspection laboratories, bodies, medical the CARICOM Regional Organisation for and Quality (CROSQ) Secretariat being the coordinating the for response was network.

however very poor.
however very poor.

testing laboratories) with Standards The centre TTBS participated in the TIG – Accreditation Annual Meeting in Belize, TIG - Awareness and Information (AI) met on 21st January where the workplans for the upcoming year were finalized.

A further workshop was held for the TIG-AI on 14th and 15th July 2014 in Barbados TIG – Accreditation (A) TTLABS facilitated the Twenty Milestones Intermediate to Accreditation There were 12 Training.
participants region the from including the Dominican Republic and Haiti.

The training took place on the 11th and 12th March 2014.

The toilet tissue and cement standards were identified for harmonization with the Dominican Republic (DR).

The DR sent their Mango and banana for harmonization with CARICOM.

standards 82 to Regional circulated The Quality Infrastructure Policy was received external and stakeholders for comments.
TTBS in collaboration with CROSQ then hosted as stakeholder consultation on the policy in August 2014 to address comments received and issues raised.

Capital Expenditure PROGRAMME There were 6 projects financed using PSIP funds in FY12/13.

The current projects are summarized as follows and details on each project can be found in Appendix 10.
83 Projects Upgrade of TTBS Building Procurement of Testing Material & Equipment Providing Reliability to Quality Infrastructure Central Services- TTBS Implementation of the Metrology Act 2004 Building Capability For Sustaining Export-Led Growth In Trinidad And Tobago By Strengthening The Trade Institutional Infrastructure For Technical Barriers To Trade (TBT) Y/E 30 Sept 2014(2013-2014) PSIP funding Released $ 500,000 2,000.000 1,500,000 1,000,000 1,000,000 PSIP funding Expended (Including commitments)$ 388,309 2,648,167 1,652,123 212,347 3,029,104 500,000 272,772 TOTAL 6,500,000 8,202,823 *Excess expended funds are from residual balances from previous year.
84 Upgrade of TTBS Building -To provide facilities of an acceptable standard for existing staff and new personnel and new equipment resulting from the Bureau's expanding mandate.

Procurement of Testing Equipment and Materials - To facilitate trade and increased competitiveness of manufacturers by the provision of testing and verification services supported by qualified and competent technical personnel and appropriate calibrated equipment.
Providing Reliability to Quality Infrastructure -To facilitate trade and increase competitiveness of small and medium enterprises through the removal of non-tariff barriers to trade resulting in easier access to regional and international markets.
Central Services -To upgrade the TTBS Website to facilitate the exchange of information and ideas between customer TTBS and its stakeholders and sale of additional products and services; satisfaction by providing a more efficient business process (faster processing of customs import documents, more rapid clearance of goods, greater accuracy of data and increased compliance to compulsory standards).
Increase efficiency of Inspections, to modernize and retool the Printery department in order to better serve our clients.
facilitate business Implementation of the Metrology Act - Through the development and establishment of the National Metrology System and the establishment of the International System of Units (SI Units) as the National System of Units; Improvement in the competitiveness of Trinidad and Tobago as a result of the application of Metrology in business; improvement in the quality of life due to visible improvements in the fairness of trade and the reliability of measurements.
Building Capability for Export-led Growth- Project designed to strengthen the Trade Institutional Infrastructure with respect to Technical Barriers to Trade in Trinidad and Tobago.

Activities are planned under this project include the development of Good Regulatory Practices from a sector specific perspective, capacity building and knowledge sharing among other things.
Procurement of Resources Procurement of goods and services is conducted in accordance with the Board approved Procurement Policy and Rules which stipulates authorities, procedures and controls necessary to provide accountability for the use of public funds.

3.4.1 The Tenders and Finance subcommittee of the Board provide the oversight for this policy and has the authority to award contracts of not less than $250,001 but no more than $500,000.
The Board of Directors has the authority to approve purchases above $500,001-$5,000,000.

The Management Tenders Committee, consists of the Technical Heads and has the authority to approve purchases between $75, 001, but no more than $250, 000.

The Executive Director shall have the authority to enter into contracts for the provision of goods and services where the stated value is not more than $75,000.00.
85 Appendix 11: Consolidated Financial Statements Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Consolidated financial statements September 30, 2014 (Expressed in Trinidad and Tobago dollars) 86 Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Contents Page Statement of management’s responsibilities Independent auditor’s report Consolidated statement of financial position Consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income Consolidated statement of accumulated surplus Consolidated statement of cash flows Notes to the consolidated financial statements 7-42 87 Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Statement of management’s responsibilities It is the responsibility of management to prepare financial statements for each financial year which present fairly, in all material respects, the state of affairs of the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards and its subsidiary (together the Group) as at the end of the financial year and the operating results of the Group for the year.
It is also management’s responsibility to ensure that the Group keeps proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the Group.

They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Group.

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’).
This responsibility includes designing, implementing and maintaining internal controls relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies, and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.
Management accepts responsibility for the annual financial statements, which have been prepared using appropriate accounting policies supported by reasonable and prudent judgements and estimates, in conformity with IFRS.

Management is of the opinion that the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the state of the financial affairs of the Bureau and its operating results.
Management further accepts responsibility for the maintenance of accounting records which are relied upon in the preparation of financial statements, as well as adequate systems of internal financial control.

Nothing has come to the attention of management to indicate that the Bureau will not remain a going concern for at least the next twelve months from the date of this statement.

________________________________ _____________________________ Theodore Reddock Executive Director (Ag.)
Nadira Mohammed Financial Comptroller June 22, 2017 June 22, 2017 1 2 Independent Auditor’s Report to the members of Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Report on the consolidated financial statements We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards and its subsidiary, which comprises the consolidated statement of financial position as at September 30, 2014, and the consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, consolidated statement of accumulated surplus and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.
Management’s responsibility for the consolidated financial statements Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’), and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
Auditor’s responsibility Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing.

Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement.
An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.

The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgement, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatements of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error.
In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion of the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control.
An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.
Opinion In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards and its subsidiary as at September 30, 2014 and its financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with IFRS.
Deloitte & Touche Port of Spain Trinidad June 22, 2017 ___________________________________________________________________ Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Consolidated statement of financial position (Expressed in Trinidad and Tobago dollars) Notes 2014 $ As at September 30, 2013 $ Restated 2012 $ ASSETS Non-current assets Property, plant and equipment Long term pension asset Government bonds 5 6(a) 7 25,860,027 24,961,064 21,044,738 49,498,000 48,738,000 43,122,000 2,684,000 2,931,000 3,178,000 Total non-current assets 78,042,027 76,630,064 67,344,738 Current assets Government bonds Cash and cash equivalents Taxation recoverable Deferred tax asset Trade and other receivables 7 8 9 247,000 247,000 247,000 36,859,338 34,348,197 31,057,015 - - 8,126 - - 68,822 6,236,144 6,734,502 7,928,473 Total current assets 43,342,482 41,337,825 39,301,310 Total assets 121,384,509 117,967,889 106,646,048 EQUITY AND LIABILITIES Capital and reserves Accumulated surplus 11 79,405,428 80,325,656 80,410,199 Total equity 79,405,428 80,325,656 80,410,199 4 Non-current liabilities Government grants deferred 12 15,492,552 13,424,744 11,974,314 Current liabilities Trade and other payables 13 25,756,624 23,562,344 14,258,523 Taxation payable 729,905 655,145 3,012 Total current liabilities 26,486,529 24,217,489 14,261,535 Total liabilities 41,979,081 37,642,233 26,235,849 Total equity and liabilities 121,384,509 117,967,889 106,646,048 The notes on pages 7 to 42 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
On June 22, 2017, the Board of Directors of Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards authorised these financial statements for issue.
_________________________________Director______________________________________Director 5 Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Consolidated statement of profit or loss and comprehensive income (Expressed in Trinidad and Tobago dollars) Year ended September 30, Notes 2014 $ 2013 $ Restated Revenue Selling, general and administrative expenses 14 18a 55,723,115 58,190,989 (58,172,392) (66,395,094) Other income Operating loss 1,695,900 2,771,957 (753,377) (5,432,148) Interest income 19 118,901 128,413 Net deficit for the year before taxation (634,476) (5,303,735) Taxation expense 16 (68,752) (870,808) Net deficit for the year after taxation (703,228) (6,174,543) Other comprehensive (loss)/income, net of taxes Item that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss Re-measurement of post - employment benefit obligations (217,000) 6,090,000 Total comprehensive loss for the year (920,228) (84,543) The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 42 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
6 Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Consolidated statement of accumulated surplus (Expressed in Trinidad and Tobago dollars) Year ended September 30, 2014 Balance at October 1, 2013 (Restated) Net deficit for the year after taxation Other comprehensive loss Total comprehensive loss for the year Balance at September 30, 2014 Year ended September 30, 2013 Balance at October 1, 2012 Net deficit for the year after taxation (Restated) Other comprehensive income Total comprehensive loss for the year Balance at September 30, 2013 Notes Accumulated surplus $ 80,325,656 (703,228) (217,000) (920,228) 79,405,428 80,410,199 (6,174,543) 6,090,000 (84,543) 80,325,656 The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 42 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
7 Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Consolidated statement of cash flows (Expressed in Trinidad and Tobago dollars) 2014 $ 2013 $ Restated Cash flows from operating activities: Net deficit for the year before taxation (634,476) (5,303,735) Adjustments to reconcile net cash generated from operating activities to net surplus/(loss) for the year: Depreciation Loss on disposal of fixed assets Net pension cost Capital in working: 2,930,227 3,633,731 3 -- 359,000 1,567,000 2,654,754 (103,004) Decrease in trade and other receivables 506,484 1,193,971 Increase in trade and other payables 2,200,288 9,145,842 Pension contributions paid (1,336,000) (1,093,000) Net cash generated from operating activities 4,025,526 9,143,809 Cash flows from investing activities Redemption on fixed deposit Proceeds from sale of fixed asset 247,000 247,000 1 -- Purchase of property, plant & equipment (3,829,194) (7,550,057) Net cash used in investing activities (3,582,193) (7,303,057) Cash flows from financing activities The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 42 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
8 Capital grants utilised Capital grants received (4,432,192) (6,549,570) 6,500,000 8,000,000 Net cash generated from financing activities 2,067,808 1,450,430 Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 2,511,141 3,291,182 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 34,348,197 31,057,015 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 36,859,338 34,348,197 Represented by: Cash and cash equivalents 36,859,338 34,348,197 The accounting policies and notes on pages 7 to 42 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
9 1.

Incorporation and principal activity The Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards (the “Bureau”) was established by an Act of Parliament number 38 of 1972, Chapter 82:03 as amended by Act 29 of 1985 and Act 18 of 1997.
The principal activities of the Bureau are to promote and encourage the development and maintenance of standards and to establish standards by the testing of goods produced or used in Trinidad and Tobago: (i) For improvement of goods produced or used in Trinidad and Tobago; (ii) To ensure industrial efficiency and development; (iii) To promote public and industrial welfare, health and safety, and (iv) For the protection of the environment.
The registered office of the Bureau is situated at #2 Century Drive, Trincity Industrial Estate, Macoya, Tunapuna.

The Bureau has a wholly owned subsidiary, Premier Quality Services Limited, whose principal business activity is training and consultancy services.

2.

Summary of significant accounting policies The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out below.
These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.

a) Basis of preparation The consolidated financial statements of Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards have been prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standard (‘IFRS’) and the IFRS interpretations Committee (“IFRS IC”) applicable to entities reporting under IFRS.

.
.

For all periods up to and including the year ended September 30, 2013, the Bureau prepared its financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard for Small and Medium- Sized Entities.

These financial statements for the year ended September 30, 2014 are the first the Bureau has prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard.

This adoption has required the adoption of IAS 19 – Employee Benefits and IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures.
Refer to Note 3 and 21 for information on how the Bureau has adopted IFRS.

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention except for investments in zero coupon government bonds which are measured at fair value.

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with the IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates.
It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Bureau’s accounting policies.

Areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimations are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in Note 4.

1 2.

Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out below.
These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.

a.

Basis of preparation The consolidated financial statements of Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards have been prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standard (‘IFRS’) and the IFRS Interpretations Committee (‘IFRIC’) applicable to entities reporting under IFRS.
Since, the Bureau was set up as an Act of Parliament, it is required to comply with the Ministry of Finance’s mandate relating to the adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards, for all periods up to and including the year ended September 30 2013, the Bureau prepared its financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard for Small and Medium-sized Entities.
These financial statements for the year ended September 30, 2014 are the first the Group has prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standard.

The Group has presented two comparative periods as the effective date of the transition is October 1, 2012.
In its first IFRS reporting period financial statements, the Group has applied IFRS standards effective for the period ended September 30, 2014, for all periods presented, including:   IAS 19 – Employee Benefits IFRS 7 Financial Instruments: Disclosures The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with the IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates.

It also requires management to exercise its judgement in the process of applying the Bureau’s accounting policies.
Areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimations are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in Note 4. b.

Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, bank advances repayable on demand and other short-term highly liquid investments, which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.
c. Trade receivables Trade receivables are amounts due from customers for services performed in the ordinary course of business.

If collection is expected in one year or less (or in the normal operating cycle of the business if longer), they are classified as current assets.

If not, they are presented as non- current assets.

Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment.

2 2.
2 2.

Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) d. Property, plant and equipment Property, plant and equipment is recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation at rates which are expected to apportion the cost of the assets on a systematic basis over their estimated useful lives.

The estimated useful lives of assets are reviewed periodically, taking account of commercial and technological obsolescence as well as normal wear and tear, and the depreciation rates are adjusted if appropriate.
Property, plant and equipment are depreciated on the straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives as follows: Building Plant & machinery Motor Vehicles 2% per annum 15.0% per annum 25.0% per annum Office furniture & equipment & library stock 12.5%-25% per annum The gain or loss arising on the disposal or retirement of an item of property, plant and equipment is determined as the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and is recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss.
The carrying amount of property, plant and equipment is reviewed whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred.

e. Government grants Grants from the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago are recognised at their fair value where there is a reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and the Bureau will comply with all the attached conditions.

Grants that contain no vesting conditions are recognized immediately in the statement of profit or loss.
Grants related to recurrent costs are deferred in liabilities and recognised in the statement of profit or loss over the period necessary to match them with the costs they are intended to compensate.

Grants relating to capital expenditure are deferred in liabilities and are credited to the consolidated statement of profit or loss on a systematic basis over the expected useful lives of the related assets.
f. Trade payables Trade payables are obligations to pay for goods or services that have been acquired in the ordinary course of business from suppliers.

Accounts payable are classified as current liabilities if payment is due within one year or less (or in the normal operating cycle of the business if longer).

If not, they are presented as non-current liabilities.

Trade payables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost.
g. Revenue recognition 3 Revenue comprises the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the testing and inspection activities undertaken in the ordinary course of the Bureau’s activities.

The Group recognises revenue when the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the Group upon performance of services and customer acceptance.

4 2.
4 2.

Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) h. Foreign currency transactions Items included in the consolidated financial statements of the Bureau are measured using the currency that best reflects the economic substance of the underlying events and the circumstances relevant to the Group (''the functional currency").

The presentation and functional currency of the Bureau is Trinidad and Tobago dollars.
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions.

Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the statement of profit or loss.

i.
i.

Employee retirement benefit obligations Pension obligations The Bureau participates in the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards Staff Pension Fund Plan.

It is a defined benefit plan which covers substantially all of its permanent employees.

A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that is not a defined contribution plan.
Typically defined benefit plans define an amount of pension benefit that an employee will receive on retirement, usually dependent on one or more factors such as age, years of service and compensation.

The assets recognized in the statement of financial position in respect of the defined benefit pension plan is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the reporting date minus the fair value of plan assets.

The defined benefit obligation is measured using the projected unit credit method.
The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future payments by reference to market yields at the reporting date on high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability.
The current service cost of the defined benefit plan, recognised in the statement of profit or loss in employee benefit expense, except where included in the cost of an asset, reflects the increase in the defined benefit obligation resulting from employee service in the current year, benefit changes curtailments and settlements.

Past-service costs are recognised immediately in income.
The net interest cost is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net balance of the defined benefit obligation and the fair value of plan assets.

This cost is included in employee benefit expense in the statement of profit or loss.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are charged or credited to equity in other comprehensive income in the period in which they arise.
j. Impairment of non-financial assets Assets that are subject to amortisation are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount.

The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs of disposal and value in use.
For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are largely independent cash inflows (cash-generating units).

Prior impairments of non-financial assets (other than goodwill) are reviewed for possible reversal at each reporting date.

5 6 2.
5 6 2.

Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) k. Financial assets The Bureau classifies its investment as either fair value through profit or loss for equities with a quoted market price or at cost less impairment for other equity investments that are not publically traded or whose fair value cannot be measured reliably.

All other financial assets are measured at amortized cost.

Management determines the classification of its financial assets at initial recognition.
Financial assets – at fair value through profit and loss Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss are those equity investments that are publicly traded or whose fair value can be measured reliably.

These financial assets are initially recognised at the transaction price excluding transaction costs and are subsequently carried at fair value.

Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value are recognised in profit and loss.
Dividends on equity instruments are recognised in the profit and loss account as part of income when the Group’s right to receive payments is established.

The fair values of quoted financial assets in active markets are based on current bid prices.

Purchase and sale of financial assets are recognised at the settlement date.
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows from the investments have expired or have been transferred and the Group has transferred substantially all risks and rewards of ownership.

Financial assets – amortized cost Loans and other receivables that have fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment.
Interest income, if applicable, is recognized by applying the effective interest rate.

Trade receivables are carried at original invoice amount less provision made for impairment of these receivables.

Financial assets – held to maturity Held-to-maturity investments are investment securities with fixed maturity where management has the positive intention and the ability to hold to maturity.
Held-to-maturity investments are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any provision for impairment.

If the Fund were to sell other than an insignificant amount of held-to-maturity assets, the entire category would be reclassified as available for sale.

l. Impairment of financial assets The Bureau assesses at the end of each reporting period whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired.
A financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired and impairment losses are incurred only if there is objective evidence of impairment as a result of one or more events that occurred after the initial recognition of the 7 asset (a ‘loss event’) and that loss event (or events) has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated.

8 2.
8 2.

Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) l. Impairment of financial assets (continued) The criteria that the Bureau uses to determine that there is objective evidence of an impairment loss include:  Significant financial difficulty of the customer;  A breach of contract, such as a default or delinquency in payments;  It becomes probable that the customer will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganisation.
For loans and receivables category, the amount of the loss is measured as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest rate.

The carrying amount of the asset is reduced and the amount of the loss is recognised in the statement of profit or loss.
If in a subsequent period, the amount of the impairment loss decreases and the decrease can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment was recognised, the reversal of the previously recognised impairment loss is recognised in the statement of profit or loss.
m. Provisions Provisions are recognised when the Bureau has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that the Bureau will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation.

The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation.
Where a provision is measured using the cash flows estimated to settle the present obligation, its carrying amount is the present value of those cash flows.

When some or all of the economic benefits required to settle a provision are expected to be recovered from a third party, a receivable is recognised as an asset if it is virtually certain that reimbursement will be received and the amount of the receivable can be measured reliably.
n. Investment in subsidiary Subsidiaries are all entities (including special purpose entities) over which the Bureau has the power to govern the financial and operating policies generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights.

The existence and effect of potential voting rights that are currently exercisable or convertible are considered when assessing whether the Bureau controls another entity.

These consolidated financial statements include the results of the subsidiary.
o.

Leases i) The Group as lessee Leases of property, plant and equipment where the Group has substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases.

Finance leases are capitalised 9 at the inception of the lease at the lower of the fair value of the leased property or the present value of the minimum lease payments.

Each lease payment is allocated between the liability and finance charge so as to achieve a constant rate on the finance balance outstanding.
The corresponding rental obligations, net of finance charges, are included in other long-term payables.

10 2.

Summary of significant accounting policies (continued) o.

Leases (continued) i) The Group as lessee The interest element of the finance cost is charged to the statement of profit or loss over the lease period so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability for each period.
The property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases is depreciated over the shorter of the useful life of the asset or the lease term.

Leases where a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases.

Payments made under operating leases are charged to the statement of profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.
ii) The Group as lessor Rental income from operating leases is recognised on a straight line basis over the term of the relevant lease.

p. Other financial liabilities Other financial liabilities are initially measured at transaction price, net of transaction costs.

Other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, with interest expense recognised on an effective yield basis.
The effective interest method is a method of calculating the amortised cost of a financial liability and of allocating interest expense over the relevant period.

The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments through the expected life of the financial liability, or, where appropriate, a shorter period to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.
q. Comparatives When necessary, comparative figures are adjusted to conform with changes in presentation in the current year.

11 3.
11 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) 3.1 New and amended standards adopted by the Bureau The following standards have been adopted by the Bureau for the first time for the financial year beginning on or after September 1, 2013 and have no material impact on the Bureau:     Amendment to IAS 32, ‘Financial instruments: Presentation’ on offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities.
This amendment clarifies that the right to offset must not be contingent on a future event.

It must also be legally enforceable for all counterparties in the normal course of business, as well as in the event of default, insolvency or bankruptcy.

The amendment also considers settlement mechanisms.

The amendment did not have a significant effect on the Bureau’s financial statements.

Amendments to IAS 36, ‘Impairment of Assets’, on the recoverable amount disclosures for non-financial assets.
This amendment removed certain disclosures of the recoverable amount of cash generating units which had been included in IAS 36 by the issue of IFRS 13.

Amendment to IAS 39, ‘Financial instruments: Recognition and Measurement’ on the novation of derivatives and the continuation of hedge accounting.

This amendment considers legislative changes to ‘over-the-counter’ derivatives and the establishment of central counterparties.
Under IAS 39 novation of derivatives to central counterparties would result in discontinuance of hedge accounting.

The amendment provides relief from discontinuing hedge accounting when novation of a hedging instrument meets specified criteria.

The Bureau has applied the amendment and there has been no significant impact on the Bureau financial statements as a result.

IFRIC 21, ‘Levies’, sets out the accounting for an obligation to pay a levy if that liability is within the scope of IAS 37 ‘Provisions’.
The interpretation addresses what the obligating event is that gives rise to pay a levy and when a liability should be recognised.

The Bureau is not currently subjected to significant levies so the impact on the Bureau is not material.

12 3.
Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective The Bureau has not applied the following new and revised IFRS that have been issued but are not yet effective: IFRS 9 IFRS 14 IFRS 15 IFRS 16      Amendments to IFRS 11 Financial instruments5 Regulatory Deferral Accounts3 Revenue from Contracts with Customers4 Leases7 Accounting for Acquisitions of Interest in Joint Operations3  Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38 Clarification of Acceptable Methods of Depreciation and Amortization3  Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 41  Amendments to IAS 19 Agriculture: Bearer Plants3 Defined Benefit Plans: Employee Contributions1  Amendments to IFRS  Amendments to IFRS  Amendments to IFRS 10 and IAS 28  Amendments to IFRS  Amendments to IAS 1  Amendments to IAS 27 Annual Improvements to IFRS 2010-20122 Annual Improvements to IFRS 2011-20131 Sale of Contribution of Assets between an Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture3 Annual Improvements to IFRS 2012-20146 Disclosure Initiative3 Equity Method in Separate Financial Statements3  Amendments to IFRS 10, IFRS 12 and IAS 28 Investment Entities: Applying the Consolidation Exception3  Amendments to IAS 12 Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets Unrealised Losses4  Amendments to IAS 7 Disclosure initiative4 1 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after July 1, 2014, with earlier application permitted.
2 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after July 1, 2014, with limited exceptions.

Earlier application is permitted.

3 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016, with earlier application permitted.

4 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017, with earlier application permitted.

5 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with earlier application permitted.
6 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after July 1, 2016, with earlier application permitted.

13 7 Effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, with earlier application permitted.

14 3.
14 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  IFRS 9 Financial Instruments IFRS 9 issued in November 2009 introduced new requirements for the classification and measurement of financial assets.
IFRS 9 was subsequently amended in October 2010 to include requirements for the classification and measurement of financial liabilities and for derecognition, and in November 2013 to include the new requirements for general hedge accounting.
Another revised version of this IFRS was issued in July 2014 mainly to include a) impairment requirements for financial assets and b) limited amendments to the classification and measurement requirements by introducing ‘fair value through other comprehensive income’ (FVTOCI) measurement category for certain simple debt instruments.
Key requirements of IFRS 9:  all recognized financial assets that are within the scope of IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement are required to be subsequently measured at amortised cost or fair value.
Specifically, debt investments that are held within a business model whose objective is to collect the contractual cash flows, and that have contractual cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal outstanding are generally measured at amortised cost at the end of subsequent accounting periods.
Debt instruments that are held within a business model whose objective is achieved both by collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial assets, and that have contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding, are measured at FVTOCI.

All other debt investments and equity investments are measured at their fair value at the end of the subsequent accounting periods.
In addition, under IFRS 9, entities may make an irrevocable election to present subsequent changes in the fair value of an equity investment (that is not held for trading) in other comprehensive income, with only dividend income generally recognized in profit or loss.
 with regard to the measurement of financial liabilities designated as at fair value through profit or loss, IFRS 9 requires that the amount of change in the fair value of the financial liability that is attributable to changes in the credit risk of that liability is presented in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the liability’s credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit or loss.
Changes in fair value attributable to a financial liability’s credit risk are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss.

Under IAS 39, the entire amount of the change in the fair value of the financial liability designated as fair value through profit or loss is presented in profit or loss.

 in relation to the impairment of financial assets, IFRS 9 requires an expected loss model, as opposed to an incurred loss model under IAS 39.
The expected loss model requires an entity to account for expected credit losses and changes in those expected credit losses at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since initial recognition.

In other words, it is no longer necessary for a credit event to have occurred before credit losses are recognized.

15 3.
15 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (continued)  the new general hedge accounting requirements retain three types of hedge accounting mechanisms currently available in IAS 39.
Under IFRS 9, greater flexibility has been introduced to the types of transactions eligible for hedge accounting, specifically broadening the types of instruments that qualify for hedging instruments and the types of risk components of non-financial items that are eligible for hedge accounting.

In addition, the effectiveness test has been overhauled and replaced with the principle of an ‘economic relationship’.

Retrospective assessment of hedge effectiveness is also no longer required.
Enhanced disclosure requirements about an entity’s risk management activities have also been introduced.

The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of IFRS 9 in the future will have a material impact on the amounts reported in respect of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities.

 IFRS 14 Regulatory Deferral Account IFRS 14 specifies the accounting for regulatory deferral account balances that arise from rate-regulated activities.
The Standard is available only to first-time adopters of IFRSs who recognised regulatory deferral account balances under their previous GAAP.

IFRS 14 permits eligible first-time adopters of IFRSs to continue their previous GAAP rate-regulated accounting policies, with limited changes, and requires separate presentation of regulatory deferral account balances in the statement of financial position and statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income.
Disclosures are also required to identify the nature of, and risk associated with, the form of rate regulation that has given rise to the recognition of regulatory deferral account balances.

The directors of the Bureau do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Bureau’s financial statements.

16 3.
16 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers In May 2014, IFRS 15 was issued which establishes a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue from contracts with customers.
IFRS 15 will supersede the current revenue recognition guidance including IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts and the related Interpretations when it becomes effective.

The core principle of IFRS 15 is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.
Specifically, the Standard introduces a 5-step approach to revenue recognition: - Step 1: Identify the contract(s) with a customer - Step 2: Identify the performance obligations in the contract - Step 3: Determine the transaction price - Step 4: Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract - Step 5: Recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation Under IFRS 15, an entity recognizes revenue when (or as) a performance obligation is satisfied, i.e.
when ‘control’ of the goods or services underlying the particular performance obligation is transferred to the customer.

Far more prescriptive guidance has been added in IFRS 15 to deal with specific scenarios.

Furthermore, extensive disclosures are required by IFRS 15.

It is not practicable to provide a reasonable estimate of the effect of IFRS 15 until the Bureau performs a detailed review of the impact on the financial statements.
 IFRS 16 Leases IFRS 16 specifies how an IFRS reporter will recognise, measure, present and disclose leases.

The standard provides a single lessee accounting model, requiring lessees to recognise assets and liabilities for all leases unless the lease term is 12 months or less or the underlying asset has a low value.

Lessors continue to classify leases as operating or finance, with IFRS 16’s approach to lessor accounting substantially unchanged from its predecessor, IAS 17.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of IFRS 16 in the future may have a material impact on the amounts reported and disclosures made in the Group’s financial statements.

However, it is not practicable to provide a reasonable estimate of the effect of IFRS 16 until the Group’s management performs a detailed review.

17 3.
17 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  Amendments to IFRS 11 Accounting for Acquisitions of Interest in Joint Operations The amendments to IFRS 11 provide guidance on how to account for the acquisition of a joint operation that constitutes a business as defined in IFRS 3 Business Combinations.
Specifically, the amendments state that the relevant principles on accounting for business combinations in IFRS 3 and other standards (e.g.

IAS 36 Impairment of Assets regarding impairment testing of a cash-generating unit to which goodwill on acquisition of a joint operation has been allocated) should be applied.
The same requirements should be applied to the formation of a joint operation if and only if an existing business is contributed to the joint operation by one of the parties that participate in the joint operation.

A joint operator is also required to disclose the relevant information required by IFRS 3 and other standards for business combinations.

The amendments to IFRS 11 apply prospectively for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments to IFRS 11 will have a material impact on the Group’s financial statements.

 Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38 Clarification of Acceptable Methods of Depreciation and Amortization The amendments to IAS 16 prohibit entities from using a revenue-based depreciation method for items of property, plant and equipment.
The amendments to IAS 38 introduce a rebuttable presumption that revenue is not an appropriate basis for amortization of an intangible asset.

This presumption can only be rebutted in the following two limited circumstances: a) when the intangible asset is expensed as a measure of revenue; or b) when it can be demonstrated that revenue and consumption of the economic benefits of the intangible asset are highly correlated.
The amendments apply prospectively for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2016.

The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38 will have a material impact on the Group’s financial statements.
 Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 41 Agriculture: Bearer Plants The amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 41 define a bearer plant and require biological assets that meet the definition of a bearer plant to be accounted for as property, plant and equipment in accordance with IAS 16, instead of IAS 41.

The produce growing on bearer plants continues to be accounted for in accordance with IAS 41.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 41 will have an impact on the Group’s financial statements as the Group is not engaged in agricultural activities.

18 3.
18 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  Amendments to IAS 19 Defined Benefit Plans: Employee Contributions The amendments to IAS 19 clarify how an entity should account for contributions made by employees or third parties to define benefit plans, based on whether those contributions are dependent on the number of years of service provided by the employee.
For contributions that are independent of the number of years of service, the entity may either recognize the contributions as a reduction in the service cost in the period in which the related service is rendered, or to attribute them to the employees’ periods of service using the projected unit credit method; whereas for contributions that are dependent on the number of years of service, the entity is required to attribute them to the employees’ periods of service.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments to IAS 19 will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

 Annual Improvements to IFRS 2010-2012 The Annual Improvements to IFRS 2010-2012 include a number of amendments to various IFRS, which are summarised below.

The amendments to IFRS 2 (i) change the definitions of ‘vesting condition’ and ‘market condition’; and (ii) add definitions for ‘performance condition’ and ‘service condition’.
The amendments to IFRS 2 are effective for share-based payments transaction for which the grant date is on or after July 1, 2014.

The amendments to IFRS 3 clarify that contingent consideration that is classified as an asset or a liability should be measured at fair value at each reporting date, irrespective of whether the contingent consideration is a financial instrument within the scope of IFRS 9 or IAS 39 or a non-financial asset or liability.
Changes in fair value (other than measurement period adjustments) should be recognized in profit or loss.

The amendments to IFRS 3 are effective for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after July 1, 2014.
The amendments to IFRS 8 (i) require an entity to disclose the judgements made by management in applying the aggregation criteria to operating segments, including a description of the operating segments aggregated and the economic indicators assessed in determining whether the operating segments have ‘similar economic characteristics’; and (ii) clarify that a reconciliation of the total of the reportable segments’ assets to the entity’s assets should only be provided if the segment assets are regularly provided to the chief operating decision-maker.
The amendments to the basis for conclusions of IFRS 13 clarify that the issue of IFRS 13 and consequential amendments to IAS 39 and IFRS 9 did not remove the ability to measure short-term receivables and payables with no stated interest rate at their invoice amounts without discounting, if the effect of discounting is immaterial.

As the amendments do not contain any effective date, they are considered to be immediately effective.

19 3.
19 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  Annual Improvements to IFRS 2010-2012 (continued) The amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 38 remove perceived inconsistencies in the accounting for the accumulated depreciation/ amortization when an item of property, plant and equipment or an intangible asset is revalued.
The amended standards clarify that the gross carrying amount is adjusted in a manner consistent with the revaluation of the carrying amount of the asset and that accumulated depreciation/ amortisation is the difference between the gross carrying amount and the carrying amount after taking into account accumulated impairment losses.

The amendments to IAS 24 clarify that a management entity providing key management personnel services to a reporting entity is a related party of the reporting entity.
Consequently, the reporting entity should disclose as related party transactions the amounts incurred for the service paid or payable to the management entity for the provision of key management personnel services.

However, disclosure of the components of such compensation is not required.

The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.
 Annual Improvements to IFRS 2011-2013 The Annual Improvements to IFRS 2011-2013 include a number of amendments to various IFRS, which are summarised below.

The amendments to IFRS 3 clarify that the standard does not apply to the accounting for the formation of all types of joint arrangement in the financial statements of the joint arrangement itself.
The amendments to IFRS 13 clarify the scope of the portfolio exception for measuring the fair value of a group of financial assets and financial liabilities on a net basis includes all contracts that are within the scope of, and accounted for in accordance with, IAS 39 or IFRS 9, even if those contracts do not meet the definitions of financial assets or financial liabilities within IAS 32.
The amendments to IAS 40 clarify that IAS 40 and IFRS 3 are not mutually exclusive and application of both standards may be required.

Consequently, an entity acquiring investment property must determine whether: a) the property meets the definition of investment property in terms of IAS 40; and b) the transaction meets the definition of a business combination under IFRS 3.
The directors of the Bureau do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

20 3.
Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  Amendments to IFRS 10 and IAS 28: Sale or Contribution of Assets between an Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture Amendments were made to IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements and IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (2011) to clarify the treatment of the sale or contribution of assets from an investor to its associate or joint venture, as follows: a) require full recognition in the investor's financial statements of gains and losses arising on the sale or contribution of assets that constitute a business (as defined in IFRS 3 Business Combinations) b) require the partial recognition of gains and losses where the assets do not constitute a business, i.e.
a gain or loss is recognized only to the extent of the unrelated investors’ interests in that associate or joint venture.

These requirements apply regardless of the legal form of the transaction, e.g.

whether the sale or contribution of assets occurs by an investor transferring shares in a subsidiary that holds the assets (resulting in loss of control of the subsidiary), or by the direct sale of the assets themselves.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

 Annual Improvements 2012 – 2014 The Annual Improvements to IFRS 2012-2014 include a number of amendments to various IFRS, which are summarised below.
IFRS 5 — Adds specific guidance in IFRS 5 for cases in which an entity reclassifies an asset from held for sale to held for distribution or vice versa and cases in which held-for-distribution accounting is discontinued.

IFRS 7 — Additional guidance to clarify whether a servicing contract is continuing involvement in a transferred asset, and clarification on offsetting disclosures in condensed interim financial statements.
IAS 19 — Clarify that the high quality corporate bonds used in estimating the discount rate for post-employment benefits should be denominated in the same currency as the benefits to be paid.

IAS 34 — Clarify the meaning of 'elsewhere in the interim report' and require a cross- reference.

The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

21 3.
Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  Amendment to IAS 1: Disclosure Initiative Amendments were made to IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements to address perceived impediments to preparers exercising their judgement in presenting their financial reports by making the following changes: a) clarification that information should not be obscured by aggregating or by providing immaterial information, materiality considerations apply to all parts of the financial statements, and even when a standard requires a specific disclosure, materiality considerations do apply; b) clarification that the list of line items to be presented in these statements can be disaggregated and aggregated as relevant and additional guidance on subtotals in these statements and clarification that an entity's share of OCI of equity-accounted associates and joint ventures should be presented in aggregate as single line items based on whether or not it will subsequently be reclassified to profit or loss; c) additional examples of possible ways of ordering the notes to clarify that understandability and comparability should be considered when determining the order of the notes and to demonstrate that the notes need not be presented in the order so far listed in paragraph 114 of IAS 1.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

 Amendments to IAS 27: Equity Method in Separate Financial Statements Amendments were made to IAS 27 Separate Financial Statements to permit investments in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates to be optionally accounted for using the equity method in separate financial statements.
Consequently, an entity is permitted to account for these investments either: (i) at cost; or (ii) in accordance with IFRS 9 (or IAS 39); or (iii) using the equity method.

This is an accounting policy choice for each category of investment.
 Amendments to IFRS 10, IFRS 12 and IAS 28 (Investment Entities: Applying the Consolidation Exception) Amendments were made to IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements, IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities and IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures (2011) to address issues that have arisen in the context of applying the consolidation exception for investment entities by clarifying the following points: a) The exemption from preparing consolidated financial statements for an intermediate parent entity is available to a parent entity that is a subsidiary of an investment entity, even if the investment entity measures all of its subsidiaries at fair value.
22 3.

Application of new and revised International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS’) (continued) 3.2 New and revised IFRS in issue but not yet effective (continued)  Amendments to IFRS 10, IFRS 12 and IAS 28 (Investment Entities: Applying the Consolidation Exception) (continued) b) A subsidiary that provides services related to the parent's investment activities should not be consolidated if the subsidiary itself is an investment entity.
c) When applying the equity method to an associate or a joint venture, a non-investment entity investor in an investment entity may retain the fair value measurement applied by the associate or joint venture to its interests in subsidiaries.

d) An investment entity measuring all of its subsidiaries at fair value provides the disclosures relating to investment entities required by IFRS 12.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.
 Amendments to IAS 12, (Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised Losses) Unrealised losses on debt instruments measured at fair value and measured at cost for tax purposes give rise to a deductible temporary difference regardless of whether the debt instrument's holder expects to recover the carrying amount of the debt instrument by sale or by use.

The carrying amount of an asset does not limit the estimation of probable future taxable profits.
Estimates for future taxable profits exclude tax deductions resulting from the reversal of deductible temporary differences.

An entity assesses a deferred tax asset in combination with other deferred tax assets.

Where tax law restricts the utilisation of tax losses, an entity would assess a deferred tax asset in combination with other deferred tax assets of the same type.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

 Amendments to IAS 7, (Disclosure Initiative) Amends IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows to clarify that entities shall provide disclosures that enable users of financial statements to evaluate changes in liabilities arising from financing activities.
The directors of the Group do not anticipate that the application of these amendments will have a significant impact on the Group’s financial statements.

23 4.

Critical judgements and the use of estimates The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with the IFRSs requires management to make critical judgements and use estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and related notes to the consolidated financial statements.
Actual results may differ from the estimates and assumptions used.

Key sources of uncertainty, which requires the use of estimates, include: Useful lives and residual values of property, plant and equipment The estimates of useful lives as translated into depreciation rates are detailed in the property, plant and equipment policy above.
These rates and the residual lives of the assets are reviewed annually taking cognizance of the forecasted commercial and economic realities and through benchmarking of accounting treatments within the industry.

Contingent liabilities Management applies its judgement to the facts and advice it receives from its attorneys, advocates and other advisors in assessing if an obligation is probable, more likely than not, or remote.
Such judgement is used to determine if the obligation is recognised as a liability or disclosed as a contingent liability.

Pension benefits The present value of the pension obligations depends on a number of factors that are determined on an actuarial basis using a number of assumptions.

The assumptions used in determining the net cost (income) for pensions include the discount rate.

Any changes in these assumptions will impact the carrying amount of pension obligations.
The Bureau determines the appropriate discount rate at the end of each year.

This is the interest rate that is used to determine the present value of estimated future cash outflows expected to be required to settle the pension obligations.
In determining the appropriate discount rate, the Bureau considers the interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related pension liability.

Other key assumptions for pension obligations are based in part on current market conditions.

Additional information is disclosed in note 6.

24 5.
Property, plant and equipment Leasehold land and buildings Plant, machinery and motor vehicles Office furniture, equipment and library stock $ $ $ Total $ Year ended September 30, 2014 Opening net book amount 9,517,040 8,489,941 6,954,083 24,961,064 Additions Disposals -- -- 3,069,564 759,630 3,829,194 (4) -- (4) Depreciation expense (210,633) (1,546,303) (1,173,291) (2,930,227) Closing net book amount 9,306,407 10,013,198 6,540,422 25,860,027 At September 30, 2014 Cost 13,400,252 36,365,485 21,435,868 71,201,605 Accumulated depreciation (4,093,845) (26,352,287) (14,895,446) (45,341,578) Net book amount 9,306,407 10,013,198 6,540,422 25,860,027 Year ended September 30, 2013 Opening net book amount 9,837,901 5,827,221 5,379,617 21,044,739 Additions 3,900 4,379,291 3,166,865 7,550,056 Depreciation expense (324,761) (1,716,571) (1,592,399) (3,633,731) Closing net book amount 9,517,040 8,489,941 6,954,083 24,961,064 At September 30, 2012 Cost 13,396,352 29,185,691 17,509,373 60,091,416 Accumulated depreciation (3,558,451) (23,358,470) (12,129,756) (39,046,677) Net book amount 9,837,901 5,827,221 5,379,617 21,044,739 Library stock Library stock consists of volumes of reference books on standards, manuals and magazines maintained by the Bureau.
25 6.

Long term pension asset a.

Net asset shown on statement of financial position 2014 $ 2013 $ Present value of defined benefit obligation 69,381,000 63,744,000 Fair value of assets (118,879,000) (112,482,000) Net defined benefit asset (49,498,000) (48,738,000) 26 6.

Long term pension asset (continued) b.
Movement in present value of defined benefit obligation Defined benefit obligation at start of year 63,744,000 60,488,000 2014 $ 2013 $ Current service cost Interest cost Members’ contribution Benefits improvements Actuarial gain Benefits paid 2,838,000 2,395,000 3,130,000 2,971,000 372,000 309,000 - 1,363,000 1,619,000 (1,629,000) (2,322,000) (2,153,000) Defined benefit obligation at end of year 69,381,000 63,744,000 c. The defined benefit obligation is allocated between the Plan’s members as follows: - - - Active Deferred members Pensioners 59% 6% 35% The weighted average duration of the defined benefit obligation is16.3 years.
93% of the value of the benefits for active members is vested.

29% of the defined benefit obligation for active members is conditional on future salary increases.
d. Movement in fair value of plan assets 2014 $ 2013 $ Fair value of plan assets at start of year 112,482,000 103,610,000 Interest income 5,609,000 5,162,000 Return on Plan assets, excluding interest income 1,401,000 4,461,000 Bureau contributions Members' contributions Benefits paid 1,336,000 1,093,000 372,000 309,000 (2,321,000) (2,153,000) 27 Fair value of Plan assets at end of year 118,879,000 112,482,000 Actual return on Plan assets 7,010,000 9,623,000 Plan assets are primarily invested in listed common stock, government and corporate securities, cash and fixed deposits.
28 6.
Long term pension asset (continued) e. Asset allocation 2014 $ 2013 $ Regionally listed equities (prices quoted on regional exchanges) 31,141,000 25,075,000 Overseas equities (developed markets) 18,369,000 15,184,000 TT$ bonds (no quoted market prices) 63,244,000 62,113,000 US$ bonds (no quoted market prices) 506,000 510,000 Local equity/income mutual fund 3,175,000 1,084,000 Cash and cash equivalents 2,444,000 8,516,000 Fair value of Plan assets at end of year 118,879,000 112,482,000 All asset values as at September 30, 2014 were taken from the Plan’s audited accounts provided by the Plan’s Trustee (First Citizens Trustee Services).
Overseas equities have quoted prices in active markets.

Local equities also have quoted prices but the market is relatively illiquid.

The Investment Manager (First Citizens Asset Management) calculates the fair value of the Government bonds and corporate bonds by discounting expected future proceeds using a constructed yield curve.

The majority of the Plan’s government bonds were issued by the Government of Trinidad & Tobago, which also guarantees many of the corporate bonds held by the Plan.
The Plan’s assets are invested in a strategy agreed with the Plan’s Trustee and Management Committee.

This strategy is largely dictated by statutory constraints (at least 80% of the assets must be invested in Trinidad & Tobago and no more than 50% in equities) and the availability of suitable investments.

There are no asset-liability matching strategies used by the Plan.
f. Expense recognised in profit or loss 2014 $ 2013 $ Current service cost 2,838,000 2,395,000 Net Interest on net defined benefit asset (2,479,000) (2,191,000) Past service expense - 1,363,000 Net pension cost (Note 18.b) 359,000 1,567,000 29 g. Re-measurements recognised in other comprehensive income 2014 $ 2013 $ Experience losses/(gains) 217,000 (6,090,000) Total amount recognised in other comprehensive income 217,000 (6,090,000) 30 6.
Long term pension asset (continued) h. Reconciliation of opening and closing balance sheet entries 2014 $ 2013 $ Opening defined benefit asset (48,738,000) (43,122,000) Net pension cost 359,000 1,567,000 Re-measurements recognised in other comprehensive income 217,000 (6,090,000) Bureau contributions paid (1,336,000) (1,093,000) Closing defined benefit asset (49,498,000) (48,738,000) i.
Summary of principal assumptions Discount rate Salary increases Pensioner liabilities Life expectancy at age 60 for current pensioner in years - Male - Female Life expectancy at age 60 for current members age 40 in years - Male - Female 2014 $ 5.0% 5.0% 3.0% 21.0 25.1 21.4 25.4 2013 $ 5.0% 5.0% 3.0% 21.0 25.1 21.4 25.4 j.
Sensitivity analysis 1%pa higher 1%pa lower 31 Discount rate Future salary increases 12,166,000 (9,576,000) (2,837,000) 3,165,000 An increase of 1 year in the assumed life expectancies shown above would increase the defined benefit obligation at September 30, 2014 by $1.758 million.

These sensitivities were calculated by re-calculating the defined benefit obligations using the revised assumptions.
k. Funding The Bureau meets the balance of the cost of funding the defined benefit Pension Plan and the Board must pay contributions at least equal to 18% of members’ pensionable pay, which are fixed.

The funding requirements are based on regular (at least every 3 years) actuarial valuations of the Plan and the assumptions used to determine the funding required may differ from those set out above.

The Bureau expects to pay contributions of $1.419 million to the Pension Plan during 2014/15.
However, this amount could increase if outstanding pay negotiations are completed during the year.

32 7.
32 7.

Government bonds 2014 $ 2013 $ British American Insurance Company Limited 4,678,000 3,425,000 Allowance for impairment (1,500,000) -- Redemption of investment during the year (247,000) (247,000) 3,178,000 3,425,000 Current portion Non-current portion 2,931,000 3,178,000 247,000 247,000 2,684,000 2,931,000 2,931,000 3,178,000 The fair value of the investment as at the end of September 30, 2014 is $2,931,000.

(2013: $3,178,000).

8.


Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents comprise the following: Cash in hand Cash at bank: First Citizens Bank Limited Republic Bank Limited 2014 $ 2013 $ 46,923 3,009 15,863,287 12,849,794 2,105,750 918,977 RBC Royal Bank (Trinidad & Tobago) Limited 1,059,885 2,855,842 Money Market Fund accounts Short term investments 1,874,259 1,886,525 15,909,234 15,834,050 36,859,338 34,348,197 33 9.
Trade and other receivables Trade receivables Provision for bad debts Trade receivables (net) Other receivable Interest receivable Advances and prepaid expenses 2014 $ 2013 $ Restated 2,878,204 2,429,064 (26,110) (26,110) 2,852,094 2,402,954 1,487,459 2,240,358 52,089 26,165 1,844,502 2,065,025 6,236,144 6,734,502 Included in the other receivables balance is an amount of $171,652 (2013: $630,861) for value added tax recoverable.
10(a) Financial instruments by category The accounting policies for financial instruments have been applied to the line items below: Loans and receivables 2014 $ 2013 $ Restated Assets as per statement of financial position Trade and other receivables, excluding prepayments 4,391,642 4,669,477 Government bonds (Note 7) 2,931,000 3,178,000 Cash at bank and in hand (Note 8) 36,859,338 34,348,197 44,181,980 42,195,674 Other financial liabilities at amortised cost 2014 $ 2013 $ 34 Liabilities as per statement of financial position Trade and other payables, excluding statutory liabilities 25,756,624 23,562,344 Restated Amounts due from related parties Balances due from related parties are fully performing and there have been no defaults in the past.
2014 $ 2013 $ Cash and cash equivalents Counterparties without external credit rating: Reputable financial institutions: Cash at bank 36,859,338 34,348,197 35 11.

Accumulated surplus The reserves of the Bureau comprise an accumulation of profits/losses over its years of operations.
Section 5 of the Standards Act exempts any member of the Bureau from personal liability and under section 26 (2) with the approval of the Minister, the Bureau may build up reserves with a limit that shall be determined by the Minister.

12.
12.

Government grants deferred 2014 $ 2013 $ Balance as at October 1 13,424,744 11,974,314 Grants received from Government of Trinidad & Tobago 6,500,000 8,000,000 Grants utilized for the year (note 14) (4,432,192) (6,549,570) Balance as at September 30 15,492,552 13,424,744 13.

Trade and other payables Trade payables Other payables and accruals 14.
Revenue 2014 $ 2013 $ Restated 1,661,640 3,684,943 24,094,984 19,877,401 25,756,624 23,562,344 2014 $ 2013 $ Amortization of capital grants (note 12) 4,432,192 6,549,570 Government grants received with no vesting conditions 12,630,464 12,400,000 Testing and inspection income 35,642,889 36,530,837 Training and consultancy income 3,017,570 2,710,582 55,723,115 58,190,989 36 37 15.
Transactions with related parties Parties are considered to be related if one party has the ability to control the other party or exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial or operational decisions.

Transactions are entered into with related parties in the normal course of business where the Bureau makes payments or receives cash on a related party’s behalf.
These payments are reimbursed to or from the related party and any differences result in a receivable or payable at year end.

These transactions are carried out on normal commercial terms and conditions at market rates.

2014 $ 2013 $ a.

Trading transactions Government grants 19,130,464 20,400,000 b.

Key management remuneration for the year 3,032,528 2,768,909 c. Directors' remuneration for the period 395,056 775,524 16.
Taxation expense Income tax expense consists of the following: Corporation tax over provision Green fund levy Deferred tax asset Total expense 2014 $ 2013 $ (18,985) (148,857) (49,767) (653,129) -- (68,822) (68,752) (870,808) The effective tax rates differ from the statutory tax rates for the following reasons: Net deficit for the year before taxation (634,476) (5,303,735) Income tax expense calculated at statutory rate 158,619 1,325,934 Green fund levy Corporation tax over provision (49,767) (653,129) 18,985 148,857 38 Effect of timing differences - (68,822) Exempt income and tax losses (196,589) (1,623,648) Total expense (68,752) (870,808) The current rate of corporation tax is 25% for 2014 (2013: 25%) and is only applicable to its subsidiary Premier Quality Services Limited.
The subsidiary is entitled to carry forward its entire tax loss against future tax profits.

There is no expiry period for adjustment of tax losses against future tax profits.

The Bureau is a registered Government owned non-profit organisation in Trinidad and Tobago under the Income Tax Ordinance non-profit entities and is therefore exempted from corporation tax and business levy.

However, the Bureau is subject to green fund levy on its revenues and other income.

39 17.
39 17.

Contingencies The Group is involved in legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business.

Management believes that, based on the advice of legal council, the outcome of these proceedings will not have any adverse material effect on the Group’s consolidated financial statements.

18.

Expenses by nature a.
Selling, general and administrative expenses 2014 $ 2013 $ Restated Employee benefit expenses (Note 18b) 38,405,245 43,799,034 Utilities and insurance Depreciation Expense of capital grants Contract services Fees Repairs and maintenance Promotions and publicity Training Office supplies Rentals Board fees Other expenses 2,269,257 2,293,969 2,930,227 3,633,731 2,822,104 3,362,377 1,929,576 1,977,340 1,239,676 1,206,815 1,296,398 1,693,330 669,237 1,116,267 634,281 549,614 505,010 1,095,549 425,937 517,910 497,143 998,724 4,548,301 4,150,424 Total selling, general and administrative expenses 58,172,392 66,395,084 b.
Employee benefit expense Contract employees Wages and salaries Travelling and uniforms National insurance 20,119,684 18,085,263 12,699,078 11,787,747 745,561 545,217 630,768 584,639 Retirement and termination benefits (Note 6f) 339,333 1,551,941 40 Arrears of remuneration 2008-2010 Arrears of remuneration 2011-2013 -- -- 1,230,849 10,013,378 Arrears of remuneration 2014 3,870,821 -- 19.

Finance income – net 38,405,245 43,799,033 2014 $ 2013 $ Finance income 118,901 128,413 41 20.
Restatement a. Retrospective restatement of errors During 2014, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards discovered that a Green Fund Levy liability had been recorded twice in the current liabilities, and that an advance payment related to the purchase of an asset had been recorded as an expenses.

The financial statements for the year ended September 30, 2013 have been restated to correct these errors.

The effect of the restatement on those financial statements is shown in tables below.

b.
b.

Change in accounting policy During 2014, Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards changed its policy regarding the basis of preparation of its financial statements from International Financial Reporting Standards for Small and Medium-sized Entities to full International Financial Reporting Standards.

This resulted in the adoption of IAS 19 Employee Benefits and resulted in presentation changes only, with the inclusion of a statement of other comprehensive income.

42 20.
42 20.

Restatement (continued) Impact of retrospective restatement of error and change in accounting policy on the unconsolidated statement of financial position.
As at September 30, 2013 As previously stated Retrospective restatement of error As at September 30, 2013 Restated Adopt IAS 19 $ $ $ $ Assets Non-current assets Property, plant and equipment Long term pension asset Government bonds 24,961,064 48,738,000 2,931,000 Total non-current assets 76,630,064 Current assets Government bonds Cash and cash equivalents Tax recoverable 247,000 34,348,197 8,126 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- Trade and other receivables 5,868,023 866,479 Total current assets 40,471,346 866,479 Total assets 117,101,410 866,479 EQUITY AND LIABILITIES Capital and reserves Accumulated surplus 78,809,043 1,516,613 Total capital 78,809,043 1,516,613 Non-current liabilities Government grants deferred 13,424,744 Total non-current liabilities 13,424,744 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 24,961,064 48,738,000 2,931,000 76,630,064 247,000 34,348,197 8,126 6,734,502 41,337,825 117,967,889 80,325,656 80,325,656 13,424,744 13,424,744 43 Current liabilities Trade and other payables 24,212,478 (650,134) Taxation payable 655,145 -- Total current liabilities 24,867,623 (650,134) Total liabilities 38,292,367 (650,134) Total equity and liabilities 117,101,410 866,479 -- -- -- -- -- 23,562,344 655,145 24,217,489 37,642,233 117,967,889 44 20.
Restatement (continued) Impact of retrospective restatement of error and change in accounting policy on the consolidated statement of profit or loss.
For period ended September 30, 2013 As previously stated Retrospective restatement of error Adopt IAS 19 For period ended September 30, 2013 Restated $ $ $ $ Revenue 58,190,989 (Decrease)/Increase in pension asset 5,616,000 -- -- -- 58,190,989 (5,616,000) -- Selling, general and administrative expenses Other income Operating loss (67,437,707) 1,516,613 (474,000) (66,395,094) 2,771,957 -- -- 2,771,957 (858,761) 1,516,613 (6,090,000) (5,432,148) Finance income - net 128,413 -- -- 128,413 Net (deficit)/surplus for the year before taxation (730,348) 1,516,613 (6,090,000) (5,303,735) Taxation (870,808) -- -- (870,808) Net (deficit)/surplus for the year after taxation (1,601,156) 1,516,613 (6,090,000) (6,174,543) Impact of retrospective restatement of error and change in accounting policy on the consolidated statement of accumulated surplus.
For period ended September 30, 2013 As previously stated Retrospective restatement of error For period ended September 30, 2013 Adopt IAS 19 Restated $ $ $ $ Net (deficit)/surplus for the year after taxation (1,601,156) 1,516,613 (6,090,000) (6,174,543) 45 Re-measurement of post -- -- 6,090,000 6,090,000 Total comprehensive income for the period (1,601,156) 1,516,613 -- (84,543) 46 20.
Restatement (continued) Impact of retrospective restatement of error and change in accounting policy on the consolidated statement of changes in equity.

As at September 30, 2013 As previously stated Retrospective restatement of error As at September 30, 2013 Adopt IAS 19 Restated $ $ $ $ Year ended September 30, 2013 Balance at 1 October 2012 80,410,199 -- Net deficit for the year (1,601,156) 1,516,613 Balance at September 30, 2013 78,809,043 1,516,613 -- -- -- 80,410,199 (84,543) 80,325,656 47 20.
Restatement (continued) Impact of retrospective restatement of error and change in accounting policy on the consolidated statement of cash flows.
For period ended September 30, 2013 Retrospective For period ended September 30, As previously restatement 2013 stated of error Adopt IAS 19 Restated $ $ $ $ Cash flows from operating activities Net deficit for the year before taxation (730,348) 1,516,613 (6,090,000) (5,303,735) Adjustments to reconcile net cash generated from/(used in) operating activities to net surplus/(loss) for the year: Depreciation (Decrease)/Increase in pension asset Net pension cost Capital in working 3,633,731 (5,616,000) -- -- -- -- -- 3,633,731 5,616,000 -- 1,567,000 1,567,000 (2,712,617) 1,516,613 1,093,000 (103,004) Decrease/(increase) in trade and other receivables 2,060,450 (866,479) Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables 9,795,976 (650,134) Pension contributions paid -- Net cash generated from operating activities 9,143,809 Cash flows from investing activities Redemption on fixed deposit 247,000 Purchase of property, plant and equipment (7,550,057) Net cash used in investing activities (7,303,057) Cash flows from financing activities Capital grants utilised Capital grants received (6,549,570) 8,000,000 Net cash generated from financing activities 1,450,430 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 1,193,971 9,145,842 (1,093,000) (1,093,000) -- 9,143,809 -- -- -- -- -- -- 247,000 (7,550,057) (7,303,057) (6,549,570) 8,000,000 1,450,430 48 Net increase in cash and cash equivalents 3,291,182 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 31,057,015 Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 34,348,197 Represented by Cash and cash equivalents 34,348,197 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 3,291,182 31,057,015 34,348,197 -- 34,348,197 49 21.
Financial risk management a.

Financial risk factors The Bureau’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including currency risk, fair value interest rate risk, cash flow interest rate risk and price risk), credit risk and liquidity risk.

Risk management is carried out in line with policies approved by the Board of Directors.
(i) Market risk (a) Foreign exchange risk The Bureau’s is not exposed to foreign exchange risk since it does not operate internationally nor maintain holdings of foreign currency.

(b) Cash flow and fair value interest rate risk As the Bureau has no significant interest-bearing assets and liabilities other than deposits held at banks, the Bureau’s income and operating cash flows are substantially independent of changes in market interest rates.
(c) Price risk The Bureau is not exposed to equity securities price risk since there are no investments held as available for sale or at fair value through profit or loss.

(ii) Credit risk Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents, financial instruments as well as credit exposures to customers.
The Bureau has credit risk, however the Bureau has policies in place to ensure that use of its services are made to customers with an appropriate credit history and the financial instruments held are issued by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago, and are regarded as risk free investments.

Credit risk arises primarily from outstanding receivables (See Note 10).
The credit quality of customers, their financial position, past experience and other factors are taken into consideration in assessing credit risk and are regularly monitored through the use of credit terms.

Management does not expect any losses from non-performance by counterparties in excess of the provision made.

Cash and deposits are held with reputable financial institutions.
The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the fair value of cash and cash equivalents, and government bonds as well as each class of receivables mentioned in notes 8 and 9.

(iii) Liquidity risk Prudent liquidity risk management implies maintaining sufficient cash and short-term funds.

The table below analyses the Bureau’s non-derivative financial liabilities based on the remaining period at the statement of financial position date to the contractual maturity date.
The amounts disclosed are the contractual undiscounted cash flows.

Balances due within one year equal their carrying balances.

50 21.

Financial risk management (continued) a.

Financial risk factors (continued) (iii) Liquidity risk (continued) Less than one year 2014 $ 2013 $ Restated Trade and other payables 25,756,624 23,562,344 b.
Capital risk management The Bureau’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard its ability to continue as a going concern, in order to provide returns for its members and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital.

The Bureau monitors capital on the basis of the gearing ratio.

This ratio is calculated as net debt divided by total capital.
Total capital is calculated as ‘equity’ as shown in the statement of financial position plus net debt.

The Bureau currently has no borrowings to constitute net debt.

c. Fair value estimation The Bureau classifies fair value measurements using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs used in making the measurements in accordance with IFRS 13.
The fair value hierarchy has the following levels: Level 1 Included in the Level 1 category are financial assets and liabilities that are measured in whole or in part by reference to published quotes in an active market.
A financial instrument is regarded as quoted in an active market if quoted prices are readily and regularly available from an exchange, dealer, broker, industry group, pricing service or regulatory agency and those prices represent actual and regularly occurring market transactions on an arm’s length basis.
Level 2 Included in the Level 2 category are financial assets and liabilities that are measured using a valuation technique based on assumptions that are supported by prices from observable current market transactions and for which pricing is obtained via pricing services, but where prices have not been determined in an active market.
This includes financial assets with fair values based on broker quotes, investments in private equity funds with fair values obtained via fund managers and assets that are valued using the Trustee’s own models whereby the majority of assumptions are market observable.

51 Level 3 Included in the Level 3 category are financial assets and liabilities that are not quoted as there are no active markets to determine a price.
These financial instruments are held at fair value based on models using inputs that are not based on observable market data.

52 21.
Financial risk management (continued) c. Fair value estimation (continued) The following table shows an analysis of financial instruments recorded at fair value by level of fair value hierarchy: As at September 30, 2014 Financial assets Government Bonds As at September 30, 2013 Financial assets Government Bonds Level 3 Total balance $ $ 2,931,000 2,931,000 3,178,000 3,178,000 There was a redemption of one bond in Level 3 during the year ended September 30, 2014 with a face value of $247,000 and the redemption of one bond in Level 3 during the period ended September 30, 2013 with a face value of $247,000.
22.

Events after the end of the reporting period On September 16, 2015, the Arrears of Salaries agreement between the Trinidad and Tobago Bureau of Standards and the Public Services Association was finalised.

Accruals have been made in the financial statements for the impact of the agreement on salaries and accruals.

53